Why liberals are so angry... the attitude of victimhood

First off, start researching the candidates now, and don't forget to vote in the primaries.

On to my main topic... So, its been often observed in conservative circles that liberals who talk about pacifism and tolerance are quick to get angry and hateful. This has puzzled me for years. But today at lunch I was reading "Happiness is a Serious Problem" by Dennis Prager, and got a new perspective on the issue.

In his 17th chapter Prager points out that seeing yourself as a victim prevents happiness. (The following is paraphrased from his book) This results because those who feel victimized do not see themselves in control of their own lives. They see the world as unfair, and unfair to them in particular. As they identify themselves as victims the are angry, which makes being happy impossible. Because they have chosen to view themselves as victims they cannot allow themselves to enjoy life because to do so would challenge their perception of themselves as victims.

How does this relate? First of all, while there are true victims in this world, that doesn't mean you can afford the attitude of victimhood. As Dennis Prager says elsewhere, it is our job to be as happy as possible not only for ourselves but for those around us. Secondly, liberals love to promote the attitude of victimhood. This happens through identification with a victimized group such as a racial minority, homosexual, etc. They blame others for their unhappiness instead of the underlying attitude. Besides, if they are victims they get sympathy from others. Finally, victimhood is essentially seeking to blame others instead of making hard choices and taking responsibility for yourself. All of us have obstacles to happiness and success. Those who are truly victorious are those who overcome these roadblocks, not those who complain about them and ask for sympathy.

Also, this attitude divides our society. When we identify ourselves with a victim group we separate ourselves. We say we are a special class of people who have special needs, we deserve some of your money since we are victims. Shouldn't we as a nation be seeking to unite instead of divide? So, reject the attitude of victimhood that poisons your happiness and divides our society.