Liberal Perfectionism

Robert Parry wrote a fantastic item about the self-defeating tendencies of the far-left, and the trendy refusal to accept the president’s successes — including the end of the Iraq war. This passage was particularly solid:

However, some on the American Left operate under what might be called “the vanity of perfectionism,” the notion that what’s most important is to have the “perfect” analysis even if its consequences are destructive to mankind.

Thus, flawed political leaders who compromise are judged as no better than extremely dangerous ones who would initiate wars like the bloody mess in Iraq – or who would ignore long-term threats like global warming.

I have no problem being critical of Obama, his style can unnerve some people, but to think the other side is a reasonable alternative is beyond delusional. As we theoretically strive for perfection, we must realize “good” is sometimes good enough. You can’t always get everything you want, and compromise is a rational part of politics.

“Perfect is the enemy of the good” - Voltaire