What are the most compelling arguments for becoming a conservative or a liberal?

[Politics dude 101]

I was originally pretty Conservative but gradually became more and more liberal as I got older. I think the recession really solidified me as a left-winger. The ideal government for me is the Swedish model. It's a very free society with a dynamic economy and low poverty rates because of a generous safety net. The Nordic states constantly rate as the happiest countries in the world and are doing very well in this economic meltdown. There isn't really a compelling argument for either one. You just believe in Conservatism or Liberalism amongst other political ideologies. If you believe in a smaller federal government, lower taxes, and traditional values then you are a Conservative. If you believe in a larger federal government, generous social safety net, mixed economy and social liberal values such as pro gay marriage and pro women rights, then you are a liberal. Not any arguments just what you gravitate towards.