Do you think that the Repubs can just about all be somewhat

[cidliz2004]

basically selfish people? I was just wondering if such a large group of people could ALL possess similar personality characteristics. The Repubs that I know ( and not too many thank goodness) are basically somewhat self centered people. I won't even speak to their intellectual capacities.

[Norquist Nemesis]

1. That's my experience.

Both in growing up with staunch Republican parents as well as with several of my clients who are small business owners. They are intelligent, but the me first attitude runs at their core.

I'll never forget the time as a young child at my dad's printing shop when I got a (as in single, one and only one) large piece of paper out of the stock with the intention of drawing to amuse myself while he worked. It was about the size of a sheet of poster board. I got yelled at, "Don't use that! That costs me 5 cents a side!" Pretty much sums it all up.

[cidliz2004]

2. What other "qualities" do you think that they may possess?

And what qualities do you think that the Dems may possess?

I think of Repubs as somewhat shallow and dim as well.

[Norquist Nemesis]

4. Well...in my experience

(but speaking in generalities)

Dems are much more open minded, informed, and willing to listen to another's point of view. Their actions and beliefs are for the great good and embracing an individual enriches the whole community.

Republicans, on the other hand, immediately look for opportunity to further their own interests like heat seeking missiles looking to destroy so the occupation and move in. If someone is left behind or hurt, oh well...survival of the fittest. No, they are not all cold-hearted. But they will turn on you and screw you then twist things in their minds that they are correct.

Like I said, these are generalities only. There are plenty of Democrats that are selfish, stubborn, and greedy. There are also some Republicans that are giving, open, and community minded. :)

Welcome to DU, BTW!! We're going to have a fun time here in Illinois this election! :toast:

[CrispyQ]

3. Intolerance & fear is the commonality that I see . . .

Intolerance for anyone different & fear of change.

I think they fear change the most & would be happy if they could stop time in it's place. I think that comes from a lack of confidence & the skills to adapt, to deal with new & changing situations. It's why they try so hard to maintain the status quo.

[Zing Zing Zingbah]

5. In general, I think that they tend to be self-centered.

I think they tend to think about how a policy is going to directly affect them first and then how it will affect society second (if at all).

[lagniappe]

6. Selfishness is the cornerstone of their world view.

For the fundies, I suppose this idea is reinforced in their churches - their interpretation of the Bible is correct and yours is not.

I'm always amazed at the mental contortions that fundies do when trying to reconcile their disregard for the poor and the Bible.

Even my Republican friends who are not religious suffer from this problem. The are smart people, but they lose sleep at the thought that somehow, somewhere, a poor person is getting a free handout.