At least
two types exist:
1. Person who claims to
reject what they perceive as "both sides," while ignoring the realization that centrism carries the implication of embracing the virtues of both sides.
2. Person who claims to be moderate,
yet exhibits a pattern of behavior that typically and exclusively defends or exempts
one ideological belief from criticism.
This phrase is a
tongue-in-cheek mockery, often cast upon those who lack self awareness; this
flaw is commonly exhibited by those who want to be perceived as having risen above the
standard, despite having obvious and often stereotypical biases.
Typically, the Enlightened Centrist takes what they perceive as a neutral position, by claiming "both sides" are flawed. However, the irony of this position is the complete disregard of the possibility that both sides sometimes
may be right when it comes to certain issues. Thus, the "Enlightened Centrist" has inadvertently still chosen a partisan position while believing they have somehow conquered the conundrum of opposition.
Person 1: I voted for Joe
Biden because I hate Trump. He's much worse.
Person 2: I've seen the results of both. I would rather have had Trump.
Person 1: Both sides are bad! But, I'll pick
Biden over Trump any time.
Person 2: Yeah both parties suck, but you can't deny that Trump at least helped our economy.
Person 3: Can both of you Enlightened Centrists shut up? Both of them are morons.
Person 1:
Oh, yeah? Then, who did you vote for?
Person 3: Bernie Sanders.
Person 2: ... And you call us "Enlightened Centrists?"
Example 2:
Person 1: I think the
Israel and Palestine conflict is dumb. Both sides should stop the fighting.
Person 2: Okay, who stops first?
Person 1. Well, obviously
Israel. They're acting out a genocide of Palestinian people.
Person 2: Who started this fight though?
Person 1: Well, obviously
Israel. They started it hundreds of years ago when they stole Palestinian land!
Person 2: So,
Israel should stop fighting and just let Palestine take their land back?
Person 1: No, no, that's not what I'm saying. I just want the fighting to end.
Person 2: ... By having
Israel take the loss. You think you're being an enlightened Centrist, but you're clearly biased.
