Maybe the idealist liberals can just stifile themselves

[Xyzse]

143. I can agree with this

It is why I limit my criticism, unless asked specifically what I think.
Yes, sometimes I do criticize, but acknowledge I don't know everything.

Still, I think firebrands are useful since, even if I am not where they are at, even if I think sometimes it is unworkable given the current situation, I think it keeps me somewhat honest.

Which is why I mentioned the plea of "don't just attack, without figuring out where the person is coming from". Chances are, we agree on the end point goal, but someone like me thinks in steps on how things could work towards a particular goal. I also have to think about the repercussions of achieving a goal, the unintended consequences.

The thing I must acknowledge however, is that someone like me deliberates on many things which can paralyze action. They push forwards, and it stops me from being too accepting of the status quo.

You're right however, that the current environment is very limiting, though I guess even I must admit that I wish the current President would show more gusto towards fighting for a more progressive agenda(although I do not think him liberal at all).