We on my side of the great divide don’t, for the most part, believe that our values are direct orders from God. We don’t claim that they are immutable and beyond argument. We are, if anything, crippled by reason and open-mindedness, by a desire to persuade rather than insist. Which philosophy is more elitist? Which is more contemptuous of people who disagree?

As many conservative voices have noted, American society suffers from a cult of grievance. To put it crudely, everyone wants some of what blacks got from the civil rights movement: sympathy, publicity, occasional preferred treatment and a general ability to put everybody else on the defensive. No doubt liberals are responsible for this deplorable situation, and I apologize. Again and again. As a softheaded liberal, I even like the idea that our competitive culture has a built-in consolation prize.

But be fair! (A liberal whine, I know. Sorry.) Don’t assert the prerogatives of victory and then claim the compensations of defeat as well. You can’t oppress us and simultaneously complain that we are oppressing you.

Well of course you can do this, if you want. Who’s to stop you? I just kinda wish you wouldn’t. If you don’t mind my asking. Thanks. Sorry.

M. Kinsley

for a long time, he has worked for a united Europe, a Europe that together, would be much stronger & able to counter American policies that they disagree with, where in their current state, their power is limited by their divisions.

sounds at least plausible, for the long haul.

I don’t buy that at all. I think that was 4 years ago.

I don’t buy that at all. I think that was 4 years ago.