Why do people turn to religion and family?

Stability.  Or at least the intent.

This explains why conservatives generally associate themselves with issues important to religion and family.

Liberals by contrast are less concerned with stability and take risks.  Liberals frequently cite liberty as justification for risks that range from the innocent novel act to full-blown reckless disregard.  For example, a boy may pierce his ears, which results in no measurable harm.  Yet others will venture into consuming illegal drugs with their known medical and legal risks.

Usually when one of either side criticizes the other, it is over symptoms of the underlying view rather than the key philosophy.  For example, conservatives will condemn contraceptive policies or gay marriage as a perceived threat to family values, and hence stability in the home and society.

RISKS THAT ENHANCE STABILITY

Reckless disregard is not the same as risk-taking within the framework of Solidarity.  Solidarity does recognize the value of change and adaptation in the interests of over-all stability.

STABILITY AND GROWTH

Policies should encourage pro-social risks.  Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently posthumously praised Amelia Earhart for her adventurous spirit as an example of American enterprise.  While it appears the Age of the Adventurer has past because there are no known unexplored frontiers, James Cameron, celebrated film producer and deep-sea explorer, has undertaken a bold effort in underwater filming and remote vehicle technologies.  He plans to explore and film the deepest point on earth several miles below the surface of the sea.

The right risks can inspire generations and promote economic growth.

At a time when austere budgets are defining the limits of our boundaries, when should insist on more rather then less spending on science, including space exploration.

Risk-taking is generally a liberal endeavor, yet even conservatives realize growth is necessary to sustain the minimum status quo.  And liberals concede growth without consolidation is reckless.

CONCLUSION

Perception is as important as reality.  People act upon perception just as much.

Fiscal liberals and conservatives can agree that a proper mix of growth and consolidation, with the necessary elements of risk and stability, are necessary to sustain a unified, healthy social order.