Opus 2014-268: Litmus Has a Place

Litmus tests have their uses.  Don’t throw them out just because the word is used to intimidate you.

Litmus tests are filters not proofs.  They are used in the world of science to indicate the pH factor in a substance.  Is it acidic or base?  It is excellent for that purpose but has little use beyond that.  If a chemical reaction depends on the pH factor, it could be vital information.  It could also be a waste of time.  If an acid pH would ruin the product then the test is vital.  If the pH factor is irrelevant, then you are wasting your time. 

In politics the same is true.  Certain positions mean a definite “no” vote, but don’t guarantee a “yes” vote.  If a politician believes it is okay to kill a baby in the womb, he is removed from my list of eligible candidates.  That marks him as unworthy.  But just because he is pro-life does not make him an automatic winner.

Conservatives are not that shallow.

There are many qualities we are looking for in a leader.  No one person will be perfect.  We can settle for the imperfect candidate.  We know that, but some beliefs are non-negotiable.  Where you stand on certain issues tell me what your world view is and what kind of a person you are.  It tells me if you have the ability to think or if you are just reacting to the polls.

The elections are coming.  Put your thinking caps on and get out your litmus paper.

homo unius libri