[jeffb]

I think Ronald Reagan basically defines himself as a communist here. He says communism is "the suppression of liberty in the name of a common good." But shortly before that, he suggests he is against Jane Fonda's "liberty" in the name of the "liberty of millions of Americans" (the common good).

MARCEL BROODTHAERS: But I imagine you might not always appreciate her [Jane Fonda's] views Mr Reagan.

RONALD REAGAN: No I dont care much for Communist sympathizers to be frank.

MARCEL BROODTHAERS: But surely she is liberated in her freedom to do so.

RONALD REAGAN: If ones liberty threatens to undermine the liberty of millions of Americans then I must disagree Marcel.

<SNIP>

MARCEL BROODTHAERS: Thats a good point Edward. Can you even tell us what communism is Mr Reagan.

RONALD REAGAN: Its the suppression of liberty in the name of a common good.

[zwischenzug]

Exactly what I noticed. It's the central philosophical problem with classical liberalism right there! Before I sent this to friends: is this an April fool?

edit:

http://jdeanicite.typepad.com/i_cite/2011/03/the-arpanet-dia...

Yeah, a hoax, though disingenuously justified as a "FLIP".