Liberation can also simply mean the gaining of equal social and economic rights, as in the women's liberation movement, now more usually called feminism. Such a government is in fact provided for in the constitution, with its methods of checks and balances. However, many argue that over the last three decades the federal government has become too big, taking on more responsibilities and powers than the constitution intended, and created a huge bureaucracy that is unresponsive to public needs. It is this that has led to calls for a more limited, smaller, central government. The war in Vietnam was for the U.S., a limited war, with only gradual increases in force being applied, and the military being held back by political considerations.
Limited war is the opposite of total war.
See also total war. Inc. All Rights Reserved.