As we move further into this political campaign season, we will see the liberal mind at work. Dr. Lyle Rossiter, a forensic psychiatrist, has written about the liberal mindset, and we see lots of evidence of its impact on politicians and voters.

Here are a few attributes of the liberal mind that he has discovered. It does not preach an ethic of self-reliance or self-determination. It does not advocate moral rectitude or understand the critical role of morality in human relating. It does not celebrate the genuine altruism of private charity. It is focused on the poor and victimized while ignoring the possibility they may bear responsibility for their plight.

This is just a short list, but illustrative of the various features of a liberal mind. If these are the attributes, it is easy to see the possible solution: more government.

A Christian mind must begin with at least two key principles. First, we are created in the image of God and thus have rationality and altruism. Second, we have all sinned (Romans 3) and thus also can manifest such characteristics as greed and selfishness. A Christian should believe in self-reliance and believe that we can make rational decisions, which will help determine our future success.

At the same time, a Christian mind realizes we live in a fallen world where poverty and crime exist. We recognize the responsibility of government (Romans 13) to prevent fraud and oppression. But we also recognize our personal and corporate responsibility. Individual Christians as well as the church should help those in need. That would also include admonishing those with addictions or bad habits. They may bear some responsibility for their situation.

A Christian mind should also recognize that even people working in government have a sin nature. That is why we need checks and balances in government. To put it simply, often more government is not the answer to problems in society.