Meaning: The quote "When liberals finally grasped the strength of popular feeling about the family, they cried to appropriate the rhetoric and symbolism of family values for their own purposes" by Christopher Lasch, a prominent historian and social critic, speaks to the shifting dynamics of political discourse and the appropriation of certain ideological themes. This quote touches on the complex relationship between social values, political ideology, and the ways in which different groups seek to align themselves with or co-opt the language of these values for their own agendas.

Christopher Lasch was known for his incisive analysis of American society and culture, particularly in the latter half of the 20th century. His work often delved into the tensions and contradictions inherent in the American experience, and this quote is no exception. By focusing on the notion of "family values," Lasch highlights a particularly contentious and emotionally charged aspect of political discourse.

The phrase "family values" has been a recurring theme in political rhetoric, often associated with conservative and traditionalist viewpoints. It encompasses a range of beliefs and principles centered on the sanctity of the family unit, the importance of traditional gender roles, and the preservation of moral and ethical standards within society. However, the quote suggests a certain degree of opportunism or strategic maneuvering on the part of liberals, who, according to Lasch, sought to appropriate this language and symbolism for their own purposes.

In delving deeper into this quote, it becomes apparent that Lasch is critiquing the political maneuvering and rhetorical strategies employed by liberals in response to the pervasive influence of "family values" discourse. The use of the word "appropriation" implies a deliberate effort to adopt or co-opt the language and symbolism of family values, suggesting a certain level of insincerity or calculated political posturing.

It is important to consider the historical context in which this quote was made. The latter half of the 20th century saw significant social and cultural upheavals, including the rise of the conservative "family values" movement as a response to perceived moral and social decline. In this climate, the appropriation of family values rhetoric by liberals may have been a strategic response to the dominant discourse of the time, seeking to reframe their own positions within the language of traditional values and morality.

Moreover, Lasch's critique raises broader questions about the nature of political discourse and the ways in which language and symbolism are employed to shape public opinion. The notion of "family values" as a rhetorical tool highlights the power of certain themes and symbols to evoke strong emotional responses and shape public perception. By calling attention to the appropriation of this rhetoric, Lasch prompts us to critically examine the ways in which political actors strategically align themselves with certain values and ideals for their own purposes.

In conclusion, Christopher Lasch's quote sheds light on the complex interplay between political ideology, social values, and the strategic use of rhetoric. By highlighting the appropriation of family values symbolism by liberals, Lasch invites us to consider the ways in which political actors seek to align themselves with prevailing social narratives and the implications of such strategic maneuvering. This quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of political discourse and the complexities of ideological positioning within a rapidly changing social and cultural landscape.