Call for discussion on What We Believe

Following is a discussion on the Book page item titled: What We Believe.
Here is the item for your reference:

The Modern Whigs are a pragmatic, common sense, centrist-oriented party where rational solutions trump ideology and integrity trumps impunity.

Our core modern Whig philosophy relies on several fundamental tenets:

INDEPENDENT THINKING, Modern Whigs try to practice independent critical thought. We sprang up as a reaction to ill conceived public policy that did not represent the will of the People. Today, we witness policy debates based on ideology, not on concrete solutions. Critical thinking means challenging all assumptions, and mapping and analyzing all possible solutions based on facts and potential outcomes, not on party ideology. Whigs are also keenly aware that much of what constitutes political debate today are people "parroting" others' opinions without reliance on facts or their own self discovery.

Modern Whigs come from a place of discovery. We assume that the best solutions are still waiting to be discovered by an empowered and engaged electorate, and that the current two party system is an impediment to our progress as a Nation. An undivided electorate who can approach issues with an open mind, without prior prejudice, is what our Nation needs to forge bold new solutions built on firm common ground. We believe in American ingenuity!

MERITOCRACY is another pillar of the modern Whig methodology: we believe that society should reward merit, which is a combination of intelligence, talent, competence and hard work. Merit is determined through an objective evaluation of an individual’s professional accomplishments, educational achievements and personal character. Similarly, solutions to problems should be formed and judged in a rational manner based on a process of discovery, analysis and proposed solutions based on their merits, not on prior prejudice, pure self interest or false beliefs.

INTEGRITY is as fundamental a pillar to modern Whigs as Independent Thought. Integrity means honesty and a commitment to an ethical approach to politics. Integrity in thought, integrity in action. Whigs practice what they preach, live up to their promises and do not make promises they cannot keep. Integrity also means accountability: no one is above the law and everyone lives by the same rules. You'll find modern Whigs near mum on issues of social morality, as these are personal. On issues of ethics or integrity, however, we will hold our officers, leaders and candidates to the highest of ethical standards, above today's actual legal requirements.

These are the core tenets that form the foundation of the Modern Whig philosophy; These concepts allow us to look for genuine,long term solutions to our problems not just for today, but for the next generation as well. Each of our members are encouraged and expected to contribute to this process by helping to shape the discussion and choosing competent people to hold office.

Modern Whigs are neither Conservative nor Liberal and do not wish to be confined to the traditional left-right political spectrum. In fact, in a purely historical or classic context, we can be considered Conservative Liberals. Really! In our current political reality, this seems like nonsense doesn't it? It is, however, patently true. How? To borrow a phrase from President Clinton's campaign, "Its the system stupid!"

Beyond philosophical tenets, modern Whigs also promote a concrete platform of political ideals and policies which we believe are the most critical issues to the welfare of our country. These principles bind us as moderates, unify us as Americans, and come from a place of inclusiveness, not division.

1.Fiscal Responsibility -Any action of the government must respect principles of fiscal responsibility and public accountability.

2.Energy Independence- Develop practical domestic energy sources and economically viable alternative energy to reduce dependence on foreign energy sources and strive towards energy independence. This is also a component of our inward looking economic focus.

3.Inward looking economic focus - It's about time we refocus on ourselves and discover and implement policies to grow domestic demand and our manufacturing base to provide an environment that can create the kinds of jobs that will support American families within the context of a globally interdependent world.

4.State's Responsibility- Each state can generally determine its course of action based on local values and unique needs. Whigs believe in a strong government at every level and separation of powers. Yet, strong and competent local and state governments are important, as they are the level of government where the people can get most involved. All citizens need to ensure the Federal government doesnt usurp its Constitutional authority.

5.Social Acceptance -When the government is compelled to legislate morality (laws), every citizen should be considered as equal.

6.Education and Scientific Advancement- Increase public and private emphasis on math and science to promote American innovation to compete in the global economy.

7.Veterans Affairs -Vigilant advocacy relating to the medical, financial, and overall well-being of our military families and veterans.

8.Electoral & Government Reform- Support efforts and work for governmental reform that makes the American government efficient, fair, and responsive at all levels. Support efforts and work for electoral reform to allow all Americans to have their voices heard and make it rational for citizens to participate in the government and electoral processes.

A more comprehensive list of current Whig stands on a broad range of issues can be found in our " Where We Stand" section.

What modern Whigs do not attempt to do is to tell Americans how to believe. Your personal morality is of little concern to us. Your civic mindedness and personal ethics, however, are of paramount concern as they should be to all our fellow citizens at the most fundamental level.

Whigs believe it is time to change the antiquated two party system with a more open and citizen-centric solution.

Whigs believe it is critical for citizens to re-engage in civic affairs with new tools. Citizens' reliance on proxy political parties as their proxy has in large part caused the mess we're in. ( Whig Academies)

Whigs believe that focusing on the processes of governance and refocusing political participation in America, is the ONLY proper long term solution to enable truly effective public policy and better governance. ( Modern Whig Philosophy - methodology not ideology)

Below is the discussion so far. Feel free to add your own comments!