What is the Difference Between Progressive and Liberal?

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The terms "progressive" and "liberal" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and philosophies. Here are the key differences between the two:

Progressive:

  • Progressives are generally more focused on issues related to equality, diversity, and identity.
  • They often advocate for racial distinction and separation, as opposed to the racial integration advocated by liberals.
  • Progressives are more likely to support publicly censuring those perceived to hold discriminatory views.
  • They tend to defend government regulation in the interests of citizens, similar to liberals.

Liberal:

  • Liberals focus on individual rights, personal freedoms, and limited government intervention.
  • They advocate for a society where everyone, regardless of race, has equal access and opportunities.
  • Liberals are more likely to agree with statements such as "People should be able to express their idea".
  • They fiercely defend social programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Obamacare, the Voting Rights Act, and the National Labor Relations Act.

In summary, while both progressives and liberals share some common goals and values, they differ significantly in their approaches to addressing issues such as equality, diversity, and identity. Progressives tend to focus more on racial distinction and separation, while liberals emphasize racial integration and individual rights.

Comparative Table: Progressive vs Liberal

The terms "progressive" and "liberal" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. Here is a table outlining the key differences between progressives and liberals:

Feature Progressive Liberal
Definition Progressives focus on using government power to make large institutions play by a set of rules. Liberals, on the other hand, are associated with the principles of liberty under the law.
Philosophy Progressivism is collectivist, emphasizing the importance of the community over the individual. Liberalism, especially classical liberalism, is individualistic, descending from the philosophies of the Stoics, Locke, and Kant.
Policy Preferences Progressives tend to hold more left-leaning policy preferences compared to liberals, with 63% of Progressive Left saying government services should "greatly expand" from current levels. Liberals may hold more moderate or centrist policy views.
Label Preference Only one in four liberals would go by the label "progressive". Progressives may be more inclined to avoid the term "liberal" due to its negative connotation in some political contexts.

It is essential to note that these distinctions may not hold true for everyone who identifies as progressive or liberal, and there is significant overlap between the two ideologies. However, understanding these differences can provide a better understanding of the political landscape and the varying beliefs and values within it.