What's the difference between the two major political parties? Some would say, "None." Third-party maven Ralph Nader claims they're all "Republicrats."

Then there's the other view. The two major parties, says conventional wisdom, represent enduring and opposing philosophies of government--liberal and conservative--two currents that go back to the beginning of the republic.

Let's just see about that
In the following list, which would you consider classic Democratic sentiments? Which are typical Republican stands?

[ ] People should take care of themselves, not rely on the government.
[ ] The government should help the poor and needy.
[ ] Government regulation stifles the economy.
[ ] America needs a big, powerful, active federal government.
[ ] The government can't solve social problems and shouldn't try.
[ ] The government must expand the rights of minority groups.
[ ] America must project military strength abroad.
[ ] The government should avoid war at any cost.

You're right--whatever you marked. Both parties have espoused all these positions at one time or another. Hey ...

• Are Republicans against government regulation? Under Teddy Roosevelt, they practically invented it!
• Are Democrats congenitally against war? I have 18 words for you: Vietnam, Korea, World War II, World War I, Mexican War, War of 1812--oh, and the Cold War.
• Are Republicans soft on civil rights for African Americans? Well, there was that little matter of Lincoln (a Republican) ending slavery.
• Okay, then, small government--surely that's a Republican concept. Right?

Well, actually ...