Perspective & Opinion: Conservative/Liberal

The purpose of this perspective paper/exercise is for you to apply "conservative" and "liberal" perspectives to a current "real life" social issue. As a result of this assignment, you should gain a more in-depth understanding of how each perspective shapes one's beliefs about and action taken toward a social issue.

Select one of the issues listed below and examine it from both a conservative and liberal perspective; then state your own opinion about it identifying whether you are taking a conservative or liberal position. The paper is to be three full pages in length; one page for conservative perspective; one for liberal; one for your opinion. Data and research citations are not required, but may be included.

NOTE: It is understood that the perspective/opinion you take on the issue may not be one you truly hold. In addition, the instructor is not looking for a particular position on any of the listed social issues (i.e., there is no "right" answer in regard to your personal perspective).

Capital Punishment/Execution - Keep it or abolish it?

Immigration - Looser or stricter regulations?

Same Sex Marriage - Keep it legal or revoke current law?

Affordable Care Act - Withdraw government funding or continue implementation?

Recreational Marijuana - Should it be legalized for everyone or continue being illegal?

Religion - Should government restrict some religious practices or should they not?

Gun Control - Should automatic assault weapons be legal or outlawed?

Law Enforcement/Police - Do they have too much power/authority or not enough?

National Anthem - Should public protest actions be allowed or not?

Conservative perspective: less government involvement; limit government funding; less trusting of people; individual responsibility

Liberal perspective: more government involvement; increase funding when needed; more trusting of people; environmental influences
.