Social and Economic Scales-- Where Do You Stand?

In the 21^st Century, we as citizens hear about the political, social, and economic landscape on a daily basis. We see it on the television, in the news, and on the Internet. Politicians and activists vie for our attention, saying things that we are (sub) consciously attracted to. ThisWebQuest is designed to help students take their first step in understanding where they stand on a variety of issues and further explore those standings. But for students to comprehend their placements, a few definitions are necessary for further understanding.

• Left (Liberal, Communism, Collectivism)- What is �the left�? The left tends to hold that freedom- protecting the individual rights and liberties- is a central problem in politics. Typically, those on the left tend to hold that he government is a �necessary evil�. The government exists to protect peoples� rights, and liberties while also protecting them from other individuals (such as a publicly funded police force). The government also exists to regulate the economy, ensuring fair business practices. However, many still hold that the government should not have �complete� power, but rather enough to protect and guarantee civil liberties.
• Right (Conservative, Libertarianism, Neo-liberalism)- Now that we know what �the left� is, what is �the right�? The right is almost the exact opposite. The right tends to believe in traditional institutions, free market, less (or no) government, and privately protected and owned institutions. A society is not created by a government, but rather by interdependent individuals. Government is merely a servant of the people, not the master.
• Authoritarian (Facism)- Authoritarianism is characterized by people becoming submissive to an authority. This authority is generally a small group of politicians or economic leaders that people follow. Generally, Authoritarianism denotes government imposed power.
• Libertarianism (Anarchism)- Libertarianism emphasizes individual freedoms and liberties. Generally this advocates small government, with individuals creating an interdependent society.

 The goal of this project is for you to learn "where you stand" and learn more about the political, economic, and social environment that you come in contact with daily. You'll learn not only about yourself, but about others as well. Everyone falls somewhere in this political and economic landscape. Our opinions evolve and change over time. I hope with this assignment you'll self-reflect on your placement, learn what that placement means, and maybe even start wanting to take a more proactive role in our society. 

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 Sources

About the Political Compass (2012). Accessed on June 24, 2012 from url http://www.politicalcompass.org/analysis2

Conservatism (n.d.)Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Access on June 24, 2012 from url http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/133435/conservatism

Liberalism (n.d.) EncyclopediaBritannica Online. Access on June 24, 2012 from url http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/339173/liberalism