The results from the 8 Values post are generally aligned with my expectations. I understand that there are costs and benefits with each ideology. It would be foolish to assume a 'perfect' governing structure exists. My opinions regarding the 8 values are directed towards giving individuals the greatest amount of personal freedom while also protecting the nation as a whole.
Economic - Capitalist (78%)
With lower taxes the wealth earned is more powerful. Less taxes also means less government spending on inefficient programs. Overall, government spending is fraught with wasteful spending with good intentions. Social programs can be useful for those who need it. I would prefer a universal basic income (UBI; or a negative income tax) - that way the individuals who are most in need have the ability to spend directly on the items needed the most. Nobody knows what an individual needs more than that individual. I trust that individuals would spend UBI in a way that impacts their immediate needs directly.
I think the State has taken over social programs that were once the focus of many powerful, local, non-profit organizations including churches. I say powerful because these non-profits were able to better understand the needs of their local community. With the increased social programs of the state there is less need for non-profit organizations, volunteerism, and community.
I am cautious about complete deregulation; my thoughts are mixed on the topic. With complete deregulation I am certain companies would harm less powerful communities for the sake of another. How can regulation be made more effective? Perhaps with regulators being privatized... but that also sounds like a path with many consequences - with similar corruption. Sadly, the "winners" in a capitalism with a strong government often lobby to establish regulations which stifle smaller competitors. Compliance with regulations comes with a great cost to the public.
Diplomatic - Nationalist (76%)
One of the government's main purposes is to preserve and protect the welfare of the citizens - not the welfare of the globe. A strong military is necessary to preserve and protect the welfare of the citizens. This does not mean the state should take an expansionist military posture.
A global government would be ineffective attempting to balance the needs for all of the diverse needs from each sub-state. The smaller and more local the government the better.
Civil - Moderate (53%)
I'm surprised I scored so low in "liberty." I think the government should be absent from the lives of individuals including surveillance and censorship. The laws imposed on what landowners can do with the land they own is a travesty (permits and codes needed for everything).
Where I do appreciate strong state power against those who are violent and attempt to limit the liberties of others.
Society - Traditional (65%)
This section provides a false dichotomy - assuming tradition comes at the expense of scientific innovation. Scientific innovation has generally increased the well-being of humanity as a whole. I am excited for the innovations just around the corner.
Moral codes are important for a people - with constantly changing morals it becomes more difficult to navigate an already confusing world. Traditions help a people recognize and reinforce shared values.
