Perhaps this is the time to clear up the confusion about what people at the Facebook page, American Progressive Party*, mean by the word “progressive”. Some write as if there is already a consensus, but it is evident that at least three distinct schools of progressivism are represented. My observations:
1. “Progressivism” is a synonym for “liberalism”. During the Reagan years, “liberal” took on a pejorative connotation and liberals thought they would make themselves seem less objectionable if they adopted a new term for themselves.
2. “Progressivism” is as Glenn Beck describes. It harkens back to the anti-capitalist theorists of the early 20th Century like Saul Alinsky. Top-down lines of authority, rigid ideology and quasi-religious terms like “collective consciousness” have been used by at least one of the members here. I also note that some call for radical action, even at the expense of democratic processes or consensus-building. It seems rather quaint but unless they are being disingenuous, there is a desire to rekindle an ideology based on a reformulation of Marxist-Leninist principles.
3. “Progressivism” refers to a movement for good government, accountability and structural reform. While it is quite compatible with liberalism it is also a cause that libertarians and responsible conservatives can support. This kind of progressivism sees the enemy is the corporatist oligopolies that have entrenched their hold on most of the levers of government and have corrupted both of the major political parties.
Any thoughts on my analysis? Did I miss something? Am I off-base? Most importantly, what type of “progressivism” do the fans of that page seek?
*[ http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=13620&uid=195858376158#!/pages/The-American-Progressive-Party/195858376158?ref=ts ]
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