That diagram really illiustrates well something I've been thinking/wondering about recently in relation to this - especially if you would draw two arrows, one pointing outward and one inward. Because that's how I'm currently envisioning it - liberalism being an outward expansive embrace of all cultures, all races religions sexualities etc, and conservatism an inward withdrawal or closing-off, excluding anything that isn't "of me and mine". One of the core concepts of conservatism seems to be patriotism and pride - Mine is the best country. Within the country, mine is the best city... the best race, religion, family... does it end in narcissistic solipsism? Probably only in the most extreme cases. Narcissism to me seems like a condition that either results from or causes extreme conservatism (all this thinking results because my lifelong friend is an extreme conservative and narcissist - I can't help but think they're related). Of course, I'm not suggesting that most conservatives fit this extreme profile at all - what I'm exploring now is a rare case and a very individual one, complicated by psychological issues (namely narcissistic personality disorder). But sometimes looking at an extreme version of something gives you insight into the nature of the overall thing itself.

So, how possible is it for open-minded, all-accepting (or trying to be) liberals to accept views that are essentially antithetical, that consist of a closing-off and shutting-down? This last question is meant in general, not just in the case of me and my friend. I mean, is it the right thing for liberals to try to find it in their hearts to forgive and understand racist and xenophobic behavior just because "they can't help it"? My question basically is this... IS the dichotomy really false? Is it just a matter of shifting perception and trying to be understanding? Or are the aims of liberals and conservatives completely antithetical?

I suppose in the political arena there can be no forgive and forget - liberals have to fight to protect the rights of the underprivileged and the environment. But as friends, as people, as long as there's no political debate going on, I guess I can just chuckle when he spews hateful venom against all and sundry that are different from him and accept that he can't help it. But it sucks to know I have to be ridiculously open and accepting to one who's exactly the opposite.