College students are often shining examples of intelligence and forward thinking, which means their complexities stretch beyond convenient 'labels.' A recent survey nicely illustrates this fact.

Analysis of new survey findings released today show some unexpected relationships between students' religious and political views and attitudes on social issues, and how they label these views. Based on their attitudes toward 'hot button' social issues, the four most 'conservative' religious groups are Baptists, Mormons, 7th Day Adventists, and 'Other Christians' (mainly Evangelicals). Large majorities of students in each of these groups (58%-80%) oppose 'liberal' views such as legalizing marital status for homosexuals, keeping abortion legal, and legalizing marijuana.

However, in none of these denominations, nor in any other religious group do as many as half of the students describe themselves as either conservative or far right in their politics. Moreover, among 7th Day Adventists, students identifying themselves as 'liberal' actually outnumber those identifying themselves as 'conservative' (29% vs. 21%), despite their clearly conservative views on key social issues.

How would you define the difference between 'conservative' and 'liberal?' Do you define yourself with any 'labels?'