Comment: Progressive principles

I would not presume to define progressivism for all progressives but here are my thoughts:

First my principles are grounded in my faith tradition as a Christian. Progressivism is a is a secularized version of what we Christians call sanctification. Progressivism presumes that the world, society and individuals can and should get better overtime and getting better means that the assumed dignity of creation in general and humans in particular can be actualized through political and economic reform.

This progress towards the dignity of all humans leads to greater economic security and opportunity and greater political and cultural inclusion of individuals and communities of people.

The equality of persons under the law is generally a progressive principle.

Pragmatic and adaptable policy making for the purpose of achieving these aims.

Individuals originate from communities and communities that value individuals thrive.

A mixed flexible economy of private and pubic investment, open markets with increasing worker rights and ownership works better for more people than centralized economies and laissez-fair capitalism. Progressives would say that property is best left to individuals but there needs to be some amount of collective ownership of property that serves the interest of all people. (as a Christian I believe in stewardship which means that God owns all property and we possess property in trust sometimes as individuals, sometimes as businesses and other organizations, sometimes as small communities, sometimes as states and nation.)

So I would say that progressivism is not purely statism. It is in fact only partly about matters of state. It is in many ways about the empowerment of indiviudals so that they are equipped to take care of themselves and their families without the ongoing intervention of the state.

Hope this is helpful. Again, this is my own understanding; I do not speak for all progressives.