Some people contend that while Americans may be divided by ideology or opinion,they are united by fundamental political values.Describe these core values and discuss a specific example of how their practical interpretations might conflict.

There are two components to this question.
a.Core values: Despite their differences,most Americans share a common set of values,including a belief in the principles,if not always the actual practice,of liberty,equality of opportunity,and democracy (the rule of law).Liberty refers to freedom from governmental control.Equality of opportunity refers to the ideal that all people should have the freedom to use whatever talents and wealth they have to reach their fullest potential.Democracy refers to a system of rule that permits citizens to play a significant part in the governmental process,usually through the election of key public officials.
b.Conflict from different interpretations: Even when there is broad agreement over principles,practical interpretations of principles can differ.For example,in contemporary politics,Americans' fundamental commitment to equality of opportunity has led to divisions over affirmative action programs,with both proponents and opponents citing their belief in equality of opportunity as the justification for their position.Proponents of these programs see them as necessary to ensure equality of opportunity,whereas opponents believe that affirmative action is a form of preferential treatment that violates basic American values.