I've always been confused by the difference between being the 'left' and the 'right' in government philosophies. So I did some digging.
Turns out, it was originated from the stances that parties in the French Revolution took. But those definitions have changed drastically. Which also implies that even today, those definitions are horribly mangled. In general terms though, it is somewhat reasonable to say that those on the left tend to favour equality despite the process, those on the right favour the process and thus whatever imperfections and equalities that come along with it.
Along those same lines, I never quite understood the definition of fascism. Here's what a quick check churned up : "Government that is marked by stringent social and economic control, a strong, centralized government usually headed by a dictator, and often a policy of belligerent nationalism"
Hmmmm.. sounds a little too familiar don't you think ? Then again, no one ever really said fascism in itself was bad. Nor are the ideals that socialism and communism strive for. It's really the implementation and practical issues that're really the issue.
Alright. Enough political education for today. Back to your regularly scheduled life.
