History is a myth that men agree to believe.
Napoleon BonaparteRead
In politics stupidity is not a handicap.
Interpretation
In politics, ignorance and foolishness can often be overlooked or even beneficial.
This quote suggests that political success is sometimes achieved not through intelligence or wisdom, but rather through the ability to navigate the rules of politics regardless of one's knowledge or understanding. It implies that in the political arena, those who may lack insight can still thrive, highlighting the peculiar nature of political dynamics where cleverness may not always guarantee success.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about the nature of political campaigns.
History is a myth that men agree to believe.
One must indeed be ignorant of the methods of genius to suppose that it allows itself to be cramped by forms. Forms are for mediocrity, and it is fortunate that mediocrity can act only according to routine. Ability takes its flight unhindered.
One can lead a nation only by helping it see a bright outlook. A leader is a dealer in hope.
We must laugh at man to avoid crying for him.
Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.
It is my wish that my ashes may repose on the banks of the Seine, in the midst of the French people, whom I have loved so well.
The essence of Government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse.
Our economic problems worry me much less than our political solutions, which have a far worse track record.
What did the president know, and when did he know it?
The invisible government tends to be concentrated in the hands of the few because of the expense of manipulating the social machinery which controls the opinions and habits of the masses. To advertise on a scale which will reach fifty million persons is expensive. To reach and persuade the group leaders who dictate the public's thoughts and actions is likewise expensive.
I think the truth is that the Labour Party isn't believed any more because people suspect it will say anything to get votes. The rebuilding of some radical alternatives to Thatcherism - and by that I mean all-party Thatcherism - will require us to do some very difficult things
There is an element of paranoia in this inclination to view any serious attempt at a compromised peace as somehow directed against Israel.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.