but there is some truth to what you're saying, and reflecting on it might reveal what lies at some of the fundamental psychological differences between Liberals and Conservatives. Automobiles, just like guns, seem to play a very big role in defining what it means to be manly in our culture.

I plead guilty myself to this charge. I was a keen motorsports enthusiast until I grew up and replaced it with a truly masculine pastime: sailing. After all, any gurly man can drive a car. Sailing a boat is something else entirely, requiring both skill and courage. Not to mention, my Beetle's air-cooled engine soon became a victim of the nanny state.

Since I've been old enough to keep track of these things, Conservatives have opposed a number of automotive-related policies that have been championed by Liberals. Their objections have centered about their supposed intrusion on personal freedoms, and the cost of implementing them to the auto industry. The Libs, for their part, have argued that these proposals had alleged benefits for the society as a whole that trump their effect on motorists. These include, but are not limited to...

The introduction of seat belts, air bags, and other safety-related equipment, including child safety door locks and seats.

Encouragement of consumers to purchase smaller, more economical and fuel-efficient cars, including the deprecation of the V-8 muscle car culture.

Promotion of lead-free gas and gasohol.

The 55 MPH speed limit, for both safety and economy.

The installation of catalytic converters and other pollution-control equipment.

Fuel consumption standards.

Air conditioner coolants.

Can you think of any others?