One of the differences between proper left and right sectors is that left tend (not always, I know, give me a break!) to encourage self determination and responsibiity whereas the right tend to be charity and power-based. That's horribly simplistic but at bottom accurate: as you point out, it's the "individual" and "self interest" at the heart of the Right "care", and usually "support" and "community" for the Left. there are differences, there are deviations, but that's a good summary of the majority. Both sectors are open to exploitation and corruption, both have disadvantages and advantages - I guess it is often the way in which they are operated that counts as much as their philosophy. Meaningful, respectful support and care, from my point of view, stems from socialist bases, and chairty, welfare, gratitude-laden, beholden hand-outs from the other side of the specturm. I know there will be many to challenge that, but it is my own experience.
