Liberals Losing Perspective

I doubt many would question my liberal credentials, probably best defined by epithets from those right of center who object to my writings and background. To them I am a liberal elitist, left-wing extremist, godless sinner and, one of my favorites, "nothing but an immoral pointy head atheist" who "hates America" among other transgressions. Fan mail at its best. A common technique to express disdain in letters to me is to put in quotes my qualifications as a "neurobiologist" and "senior White House Policy advisor" in the Clinton administration.

I wear with great pride this scorn from the right and consider the label of liberal a badge of honor. But during this election cycle I find myself becoming increasingly annoyed with my left-leaning colleagues and friends. Many seem to have forgotten or wish to deny the deep truth that idealism is not a foundation for governance. This growing disconnect from reality manifests itself in expressing "disappointment" in President Obama and self-destructive vows to deny support to the Democratic nominee should it be Hillary for those feeling the Bern, or to a lesser extent should it be Bernie for Clinton supporters. For my fellow liberals still willing to read on, let's look at why we need to gain a little perspective.

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