The generation gap in political values is stark, according to this Pew poll: A majority of people over 65 have a negative view of socialism and a positive view of capitalism. The 18- to 29-year-olds? They love the progressive label, only marginally object to socialism, and have a negative view of capitalism.

This Pew poll spells trouble, certainly, but how many economic conservatives will react to it by saying “Let’s throw in the towel; the defeat of capitalism is inevitable because of a generational shift”? Do we decide the 18-years-olds should rule? Or do we decide that this is a cultural fight we can and must win?

Yes, sometimes I think about other things besides gay marriage, but not as often as I would like.

P.S. “Family values” was one of the few terms for which there is no generation gap: Both the young and the old approve.