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Politics is the art of the next best.
Otto Von Bismarck
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Politics often involves compromise and making the best possible decisions under challenging circumstances.

The quote by Otto Von Bismarck emphasizes that politics is not about achieving perfection but rather about finding the most viable solutions when ideal options are unavailable. It highlights the necessity for politicians to navigate complexity and prioritize practical outcomes over lofty ideals.

Themes

PoliticsCompromiseDecision-MakingPragmatism

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion on effective governance, referencing this quote can illustrate the need for realistic strategies.

More from Otto Von Bismarck

Laws are like sausages. You sleep far better the less you know about how they are made.
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Preventive war is like committing suicide out of fear of death.
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With a gentleman I am always a gentleman and a half, and with a fraud I try to be a fraud and a half.
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Politics is the art of the possible, the attainable β€” the art of the next best
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It is the destiny of the weak to be devoured by the strong.
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A generation that has taken a beating is always followed by a generation that deals one.
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