Indeed, many issues involve judgment, and are not simple, which is why political opponents need not be enemies. However, there may be guidelines to aid judgment. For example, I would not impose the death penalty unless there were evidence of aggravating circumstances, making the crime particularly heinous. Most states, in fact, have adopted that guideline. It is up to a particular prosecutor, judge, and jury to apply it. Similarly, I would say that no governmental decision that can be reserved to a lower level of government should be made at a higher level of government. Thus, municipalities should determine health standards for dining establishments, and states should plan the system of roadways. The federal government, under this system, would do a good seal less than it does now. Also, I would say that property rights should not be impaired without a compelling reason. Working out the application of those two guidelines is for the various governments.
In a more coherent political environment, there would be a greater degree of consensus on the guidelines, and political disputes would only revolve around the more difficult cases. In fact, we live in a political environment where the guidelines I just articulated are highly controversial, and where the level of political dispute is consequently more grave. |
