• acastcandream@beehaw.org
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    1 year ago

    centrists understand the issues but don’t think an extreme left/right solution is the answer but elements from both sides should be considered.

    No that’s moderates. They believe in synthesis. Centrists believe “the answer lies in the middle.” They are compromise positions that seem similar at first glance but there are nuances here that make them pretty distinct.

    Example:

    “Should we allow 100 people across the border?”

    • Left: Yes.
    • Right: No.
    • Moderate: Well what can we borrow from the right answer and the left answers to find a suitable solution?
    • Centrist: Can we allow just 50?

    Moderate positions can be across a spectrum depending on what the baseline is in the public consciousness. The problem with moderates and centrists is you can’t find a compromise position on “gay people can’t get married or have a civil union.” There’s no compromise position on “women can’t vote.” Either they can or they can’t. The group that says “no” will not accept partial rights, and partial rights just creates more out-groups.

    Compromise is laudable but it isn’t always an option. Centrists and moderates have different compromise positions/outlooks.