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Given a fair wind, we will negotiate our way into the Common Market, head held high, not crawling in. Negotiations? Yes. Unconditional acceptance of whatever terms are offered us? No.
Harold Wilson
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the importance of negotiating with integrity rather than accepting unfavorable terms submissively.

Harold Wilson's quote reflects a strong stance on the importance of dignity and negotiation in political dealings. He expresses a commitment to engaging in discussions and negotiations with confidence, rather than passively accepting whatever terms may be imposed by others. This highlights a broader philosophy of seeking fair and favorable outcomes while maintaining one's self-respect and agency.

Themes

NegotiationDignityPoliticsSelf-RespectIntegrity

In practice

Example use cases

During a political debate, I could reference this quote to underscore the importance of maintaining strong principles while negotiating.

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