If those on the political Right can’t speak out, there is no proper debate
SIR – Lionel Shriver (Comment, May 18) is correct that “Right wing” has now become synonymous with “racist”. As a university student, I am aware of the political virtue one can signal by announcing that one is “Left wing”, without understanding the true meaning of such a label.
However, I disagree that we need a new political language. While Ms Shriver posits various alternative ways of placing yourself on the political spectrum – “libertarian”, “classical liberal” – I have decided to adopt the label “Right wing” with pride. The only way to normalise the phrase and allow for proper debate is for people like me to explain to others how one can be on the Right and not a bigot, racist or fascist. Boycotting the term only emboldens the mob-left to tighten their control of the conversation. Freddie Phillips
New Milton, Hampshire
SIR – In a time when we are seemingly expected to define ourselves by our positions on single issues, I would like to thank Judith Woods (Features, May 17) and Lionel Shriver for two excellent pieces in recent days.
I once tried to explain my political position to a work colleague – that I was economically to the Right but very much in favour of the state supporting our fellow men who were in need. “What you are,” he replied, “is human.” To this day, I haven’t thought of a better definition. Stuart Reynolds
Leigh-on-sea, Essex
SIR – The acceptability in some circles of the label “communist” versus the unacceptable far-right equivalent “fascist” has always confused me, since both are historically responsible for regimes of horror.
The economics of both political extremes tend towards protectionism/ socialism/centralism, while the way they choose to wield government power tends towards single-party totalitarianism and away from multiparty democracy. Racism can be found anywhere along the spectrum. Social liberals tend towards paternalism and a broader tolerance of behaviour, but a narrower tolerance of opinion. Social conservatives tend towards promoting independence, tolerating a narrower set of behaviours but a broader acceptance of opinion. Only in the consideration of the economy does the spectrum really make sense, shifting from command economy to free market as you move rightward from the far Left.
I am therefore a social centrist/ economic conservative/democratic decentralist Christian. I just need to find a way to make it sound snappy. Ian Johnson
Cirencester, Gloucestershire
SIR – Rather than “Left” and “Right”, I suggest that we concentrate on the colours Blue and Red.
I would happily describe myself as pale Blue. Vermilion and angry Crimson could be reserved for the Corbynistas. Matthew Woodward
Biggleswade, Bedfordshire