General Discussion

stupidity of other men is responsible for the evil." Max Weber

"When you think about it, Weber's insight is a bit of a shock. It says quite plainly that in some crucial ways, radicals are not trying to win. They are trying to 'do the right thing' regardless of consequences. Given a choice, radicals would rather be 'right' than obtain what they agree is the best possible outcome. They seem to think 'possible' is a dirty word. So it's no surprise they often defeat themselves. ... In my experience, such thinking is usually accompanied by an excuse when it is challenged ... Then, when pressed, they rationalize their irresponsible behavior with some story about how the forces of history will prove them right in the end. But really, they do what they do because their religion tells them what's 'right,' saving them the trouble of taking responsibility for their actions.

"The radical ethic of conviction: Make your moral judgements without considering that there are bad actors who may cause your action to result in unwanted outcome. Liberal ethic of responsibility: People should strive for good outcomes given reality, bad actors and all.

"The difference between liberal and radicals ... is not wanting fundamental change for the better. The difference is that liberals think strategically about the real world when trying to change it for the better. And that's why they have had success. ... The biggest progressive changes have happened under Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, FDR, LBJ and Obama. All were liberals."

Steven Stoft "How Democrats Win, Resisting Dark-Side Radicalism"