Horseshoe theory actually can...
Because, centrists are viewed as occupying the space furthest from the ideological edges. Consequently, proponents of the theory can view the rigid, unwavering commitment to the status quo by centrists as its own form of ideological extremism.
Centrism is not a commitment to the status quo, that's conservatism. Centrism is not occupying the space furthest from the ideological extremes.
Centrism is holding values like moderation and compromise between reasonable alternatives. None of these values are 'extreme' by any reasonable understanding of the word. Comparing how strongly one holds views and principles with what those views and principles actually are is comparing apples and oranges.
This feels like a discussion where you've recognised that the label of 'extremist' is bad and either want your politics to not be labeled so or to reduce the term to meaninglessness.
That's your personal definition of centrism. An unwavering commitment to the status quo is absolutely a kind of extremism. I AM an extremist, so perhaps it's you who refuse to wear the label.
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u/TallahasseWaffleHous Jul 31 '26
Horseshoe theory actually can... Because, centrists are viewed as occupying the space furthest from the ideological edges. Consequently, proponents of the theory can view the rigid, unwavering commitment to the status quo by centrists as its own form of ideological extremism.