"By 'radical,' I understand one who goes too far; by 'conservative,' one who does not go far enough; by 'reactionary,' one who won't go at all"

Woodrow Wilson's quote is a succinct way of explaining the 3 main political ideologies. A radical is somebody who wants to go to severe lengths to achieve their goals, typically overlooking the effects of their actions. A conservative is someone who is more moderate in their approach, preferring to take a slower, more determined technique to change. Lastly, a reactionary is somebody who is opposed to any type of modification, preferring to preserve the status quo. Wilson's quote is a pointer that all three ideologies have their location in the political landscape, which it is necessary to understand the nuances of each one. It is likewise a pointer that it is possible to be too severe in either instructions, and that a balanced method is typically the best way to achieve progress.