Laws are like sausages. You sleep far better the less you know about how they are made.
Otto Von BismarckRead
Politics is the art of the next best.
Interpretation
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.
In practice
In a discussion on effective governance, referencing this quote can illustrate the need for realistic strategies.
Laws are like sausages. You sleep far better the less you know about how they are made.
Preventive war is like committing suicide out of fear of death.
With a gentleman I am always a gentleman and a half, and with a fraud I try to be a fraud and a half.
Politics is the art of the possible, the attainable β the art of the next best
It is the destiny of the weak to be devoured by the strong.
A generation that has taken a beating is always followed by a generation that deals one.
The authority and influence of France on the world scene in the 21st century will not depend solely on its modernity and cohesion, nor even on the continuity and professionalism of its foreign policy. France will be heeded if it has a message to convey. Faced with the temptations of laissez-faire, France must stand out as the nation with the imagination and determination to pursue an ambition that combines cogency with generosity.
Politics is not like an ocean voyage or a military campaign... something which leaves off as soon as reached. It is not a public chore to be gotten over with. It is a way of life.
The immigration issue is, I recognize, one that generates a lot of passion, but it does not make sense for us to want to push talent out.
The black masses must demand and refuse to accept nothing less than that proportionate percentage of the political spoils such as jobs, elective offices and appointments... They must reject the shameful racial tokenism that characterizes the political life of America today.
I hope we shall crush in its birth the aristocracy of our monied corporations which dare already to challenge our government to a trial by strength, and bid defiance to the laws of our country.
Politics is who gets what, when, how.
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