Negotiating in the classic diplomatic sense assumes parties more anxious to agree than to disagree.
Dean AchesonRead
I doubt very much if a man whose main literary interests were in works by Mr. Zane Grey, admirable as they may be, is particularly equipped to be the chief executive of this country, particularly where Indian Affairs are concerned.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Literary interests may influence a person's ability to govern effectively, especially on specific issues like Indian Affairs.
In this quote, Dean Acheson suggests that one's literary preferences, particularly in the context of leadership roles, can reflect their preparedness and capability to handle important matters, such as Indian Affairs. The implication is that an appreciation for certain types of literature may not provide the depth of understanding required for the complexities of governance, indicating that leaders should be well-rounded and knowledgeable in various areas of culture and politics.
Themes
LiteratureLeadershipGovernanceUnderstandingPolitics
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on leadership, one might mention Acheson's quote to discuss the impact of personal interests on professional responsibilities.
More from Dean Acheson
All quotes →The great corrupter of public man is the ego. Looking at the mirror distracts one's attention from the problem.
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The manner in which one endures what must be endured is more important than the thing that must be endured.
Dean AchesonRead
Negotiation in the classic diplomatic sense assumes parties more anxious to agree than to disagree.
Dean AchesonRead
No people in history have ever survived who thought they could protect their freedom by making themselves inoffensive to their enemies.
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I learned from the example of my father that the manner in which one endures what must be endured is more important than the thing that must be endured.
Dean AchesonRead
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