A Centrist Leader

I believe a centrist would be best equipped to lead this country. A centrist is defined as one who “espouses a 'middle ground' regarding government control of the economy and personal behavior” according to Advocates for Self-Government. Of course, some people think this is nothing more than a people pleaser who has no opinions. I strongly disagree. I think one of the most valuable virtues in politics is the ability to maintain a neutral ground, and to evaluate each issue as it presents itself. Aristotle said, “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” I think if we approach each issue from a non-biased point of view, and not automatically side with our particular party's affiliation, we will all make more educated decisions. Which should we follow? Our reason or our party? If a centrist held a position of power, he or she should be able to acquire information and evaluate it without automatically choosing the side he or she deems most compatible with their parties' platforms. A centrist should be able to make an educated decision with a level head and find a “practical” solution to the current problem.

However, nothing is perfect. Especially in politics. If ONLY centrists were elected into political positions, I fear nothing would get done. We sometimes need the fervent political extremists who argue their point until a change is brought about. If centrists were consistently elected, the leaders would be forever waiting for a decision to manifest itself. It seems that a crazy liberal or insane conservative will be the one who sways the centrists. But if there are no political extremists in politics, who will sway those who see advantages on both sides? I think the optimal compromise is to elect a centrist leader, but keep the right and left advocates in the political game. It seems imperative that politics should always remain in balance. “Right-wing” or “left-wing” politics shouldn't exist. A balanced system seems to be the best way to please all of the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time.