Posted by
Jason on Thursday, May 08, 2008 1:08:15 PM
A new study shows that Conservatives are happier than Liberals because we're able to "justify economic inequalities."
To justify economic inequalities, a person could support the idea of meritocracy, in which people supposedly move up their economic status in society based on hard work and good performance.
In that way, one's social class attainment, whether upper, middle or lower, would be perceived as totally fair and justified.
If your beliefs don't justify gaps in status, you could be left frustrated and disheartened, according to the researchers, Jaime Napier and John Jost of New York University.
I couldn't have said it better myself! Apparently we're happier because we're not socialist!
I realize this study was more intended to malign Conservatives by saying that we just don't care, but the truth is we do believe that, in America - the greatest land of opportunity mankind has ever known - people have a lot of control over their own destiny. If you work hard, make responsible life decisions, and yes, even make sacrifices, then there's a good chance that you can improve your financial status.
If you're lazy, make poor lifestyle decisions, and seek every luxury right now with credit cards or an excessive mortgage, then it's not the job of government to insulate you from the consequences by taking more from those who have sacrificed and achieved and giving it to you.
I'm certainly not rich, but I do think that the hard work, sacrifices, and good decisions I'm making now will pay off for my family and me down the road. It's not a difficult concept, and yes, I'm happy to share it...