Playing the game I have learned the meaning of humility. It has given me an understanding of futility of the human effort.
Abba EbanRead
It is our experience that political leaders do not always mean the opposite of what they say.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Political leaders may sometimes be sincere in their statements, rather than consistently deceptive.
Abba Eban's quote highlights the complexity of political communication, suggesting that while skepticism towards politicians is common, it is a misconception to assume that they always intend to deceive. Instead, it is crucial to assess their words with a nuanced perspective, recognizing that honesty can coexist with political rhetoric.
Themes
PoliticsLeadershipCommunicationHonestyDeception
In practice
Example use cases
In a political debate to highlight the importance of scrutinizing candidate statements.
More from Abba Eban
All quotes βTragedy is not what men suffer but what they miss.
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Nobody does Israel any service by proclaiming its 'right to exist.' Israel's right to exist, like that of the United States, Saudi Arabia and 152 other states, is axiomatic and unreserved. Israel's legitimacy is not suspended in midair awaiting acknowledgement.... There is certainly no other state, big or small, young or old, that would consider mere recognition of its 'right to exist' a favor, or a negotiable concession.
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A nation writes its history in the image of its ideal.
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A statesman who keeps his ear permanently glued to the ground will have neither elegance of posture nor flexibility of movement.
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Consensus is what many people say in chorus but do not believe as individuals.
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