[KC Burke]

Like you, I feel there should be a lot of common ground. For one of the better essay threads on the distinctions with lots of thoughtful comment compared to bashing try The Pursuit of Liberty: Libertarian and Conservative, Uneasy Cousins, which uses an article some years ago by Nisbet

[Sparta]

Excellent essay and discussion. Sure brings back memories of lurking on the old FR. Thanks for the refreshing view and the reasoned commentary.