Dumb Definitions Don't Help

On the ride to church yesterday we passed and then were passed by a vehicle with a bumper sticker on the back window that read something like:  "Liberals are really socialists."  As I reflected on it I wondered if the truck owner or driver would like a similar sticker saying, "Conservatives are really facists" or "Conservatives are actually Nazis) (some are, of course).  Then I began to reflect.

These sweeping "definitions" don't help much, do they?  Let me explain my thinking.

First, labeling someone "Liberal" or "Conservative" has very little meaning.  We don't know the person any better, we don't know her thoughts, his history, their pains and joys, their upbringing, their fears or ambitions.  The label doesn't help us understand or know them, but it does help us avoid getting to know that person or group.

Second, even if the label helped (it doesn't) the 'definition' doesn't define.  Using another label causes the same problems.  We don't know the person or the group any better.  If there is a problem, we aren't any closer to a solution to the problem.  Where there is inequity, we don't know better ways to resolve the issue and create more equity.  Where there is poverty we aren't any closer to helping someone find economic health.

Some bumper stickers are humorous.  Some advance thinking.  But these kind of pseudo-definitions don't help.

What are your experiences in this area?  Leave a comment and let us know.