Politics determines who has the power, not who has the truth.
Interpretation
Power in politics is decided by authority, not by factual correctness.
This quote by Paul Krugman suggests that in the realm of politics, the distribution of power is often influenced by political maneuvering and authority rather than by an objective truth. It highlights the disparity between what is true and what is accepted or enacted in political spheres, pointing towards the subjective nature of political power dynamics.
In practice
In a discussion on political campaigns, one might cite this quote to emphasize how power dynamics overshadow factual evidence.
Our popular economics writers, however, are not in the business of giving their readers a ringside seat on the research action; with no exception I can think of, they use their books to do an end run around the normal structure of scholarship, to preach ideas that few serious economists share. Often, these ideas are not just at odds with the professional consensus; they are demonstrably wrong, and sometimes terminally silly. But they sound good to the unwary reader.
The raw fact is that every successful example of economic development this past century ... has taken place via globalization.
Wealthy Americans who benefit hugely from a system rigged in their favor react with hysteria to anyone who points out just how rigged the system is.
It’s not about the budget; it’s about the power...So will the attack on unions succeed? I don’t know. But anyone who cares about retaining government of the people by the people should hope that it doesn’t.
The economics profession went astray because economists, as a group, mistook beauty, clad in impressive-looking mathematics, for truth.
The goal in the end is not to win elections. The goal is to change society.
Elected officials shouldn’t get to choose who gets to choose elected officials.
It is fascinating to watch politicians come up with 'solutions' to problems that are a direct result of their previous solutions. In many cases, the most efficient thing to do would be to repeal their previous solution and stop being so gung-ho for creating new solutions in the future. But, politically, that is the last thing they will do.
The hardest thing about any political campaign is how to win without proving that you are unworthy of winning.
Occupying armies have responsibilities, not rights. Their primary responsibility is to withdraw as quickly and expeditiously as possible, in a manner determined by the occupied population.
If you don't have a record to run on, you paint your opponent as someone to run from.
My fellow Americans, I am pleased to tell you I just signed legislation which outlaws Russia forever. The bombing begins in five minutes.
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