Nannyism

Now, Nannyism probably isn't even a word, but it represents a real potential Liberal failing, the Nanny State. The Liberal desire to protect individual rights or common property can be carried to an extreme. Liberals have to be very careful that we don't unnecessarily restrict freedom in order to protect common property or individual rights. For example, it's tempting to restrict the freedom to own weapons based upon the actions of a few irresponsible individuals. American Liberals understand the right to own weapons as an essential natural right, and guaranteed by our Government. American Liberals need to do a better job of not only protecting, but also of educating and empowering American people. We need to find a way to restrict availability of weapons to irresponsible individuals, and encourage responsible practices without burdening responsible weapon owners or restricting essential natural rights.

"That all Men are born equally free and independant, and have certain inherent natural Rights, of which they can not by any Compact, deprive or divest their Posterity; among which are the Enjoyment of Life and Liberty, with the Means of acquiring and possessing Property, and pursueing and obtaining Happiness and Safety." George Mason