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The Two Kinds of Moderates: Independent Thinking and Politics

There's a distinction between being a moderate in politics "on purpose" and "by accident." The intentional moderate, often referred to as a "trimmer," consciously seeks a middle ground between the extremes of the "far right" and the "far left." On the other hand, the accidental moderate, through independent thought, ends up in the middle due to evaluating each issue individually, often finding both extremes flawed.

The Accidental Moderate's Independent Approach

Unlike the intentional moderate who adopts a pre-defined, "50/50" approach, the accidental moderate develops their own independent opinions on each issue. This means their views are not simply a compromise but a result of their own individual judgment.

• Intentional moderates often have their opinions dictated by the prevailing social or political climate, shifting their position to remain in the middle.
• Accidental moderates, on the other hand, are less influenced by external pressures and focus on their own independent analysis of the issues.

The Importance of Independent Thinking for Accidental Moderates

The core strength of the accidental moderate lies in their independent thinking. They are not bound by dogma or ideology and are free to form their own views on any issue. They do not necessarily subscribe to the same questions or priorities as the "far right" or "far left."

• This independent perspective allows them to see beyond the narrow confines of established political narratives.
• They may even find themselves unconcerned with issues that are considered vital by both extremes.

The Courage of the Accidental Moderate

Being an accidental moderate is not a passive position. It requires a significant amount of courage to stand independently from both the "far left" and the "far right," especially in a political landscape that often labels those who don't align with a specific ideology as being "against" them.

• The accidental moderate faces criticism and attacks from both sides.
• They do not enjoy the comfort of being part of a large, cohesive group.

The Value of Independent Thinking in Various Fields

The accidental moderate mindset is not limited to politics. This ability to think independently and critically evaluate ideas is crucial in various fields, particularly those involving intellectual pursuits.

• Independent thinking is essential for individuals working with ideas, such as mathematicians, scientists, and artists.
• It allows them to question assumptions, explore new avenues, and contribute to their field in innovative ways.

Accidental Moderates: A Force for Progress

In a world dominated by ideological extremes, the accidental moderate offers a valuable counterpoint. They are not afraid to challenge the status quo, question established narratives, and forge their own paths based on independent thought and critical analysis. Their courage to stand apart from both the "far right" and "far left" makes them a force for progress, encouraging open dialogue and fostering a more nuanced understanding of complex issues.