This archive report was first published on 2 July 2019.
Published on July 2, 2019, in The New York Times, a moderate approach to governance emphasizes social solidarity and economic freedom. This approach is exemplified by the Nordic countries, where these values are not seen as opposing forces, but rather as complementary aspects of a well-functioning society.
Progressive politicians, on the other hand, often adopt a paternalistic approach, giving away free stuff and reducing citizens to children. For instance, Senators Warren and Sanders have proposed making public college free. However, research suggests that when people are given something for free, they tend to value it less and are more likely to drop out when faced with challenges.
Moderates, in contrast, want to help citizens but also want them to take responsibility for their actions. They believe in empowering individuals to make decisions for themselves, their families, and their communities. This approach is reflected in their support for child care tax credits, which allow parents to choose between different care models, rather than being forced into federally funded programs.
International competition is another area where moderates and progressives differ. Moderates believe that Americans can compete with the rest of the world and emerge victorious, while progressives, such as Senator Warren, want to shield American companies from competition by implementing protectionist policies, such as her Green Manufacturing Plan.
Finally, moderates emphasize the importance of igniting economic growth from the bottom up, rather than relying on top-down government intervention. They support tools that allow regular people to build their own lives and maximize their opportunities, such as wage subsidies and charter schools.
These differences in approach reflect fundamentally different worldviews, with moderates believing in empowering individuals and promoting economic freedom, while progressives adopt a more paternalistic and protectionist stance.
