Moral judgments don’t help

Several recent contributors to this forum have critiqued the presumed moral principles of political antagonists. Why not also invoke religious beliefs for these misguided judgments?

The philosophical underpinnings of the left and right of American politics are found in their distinct visions of the role of government, not in distinct moral principles. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson debated vigorously the merits of a strong, centralized government vs. those of a narrowly focused government. Democrats and Republicans carry those respective torches today.

I am hard-pressed to find a moral equation in either view, and I am dismayed that my opinion of issues – the health care conundrum, for example – is construed as a moral reflection. Greedy if I value the flexibility of competitive marketplaces? Corrupt if I see efficiency in federal funding? Really?

I beg to differ. I thought the question was how to best utilize the tools of government to reduce costs and improve access to quality medical care. The philosophies of Washington and Jefferson are both relevant as we seek answers, but unfounded moral judgments undermine the legitimate debate.

Can we and our political leaders please dispense with moralistic finger-pointing and just answer the questions?

Kirk Lund

Spokane