"If you only take offense when the president of your party is compared to Hitler, then you're part of the problem"
About this Quote
John Avlon's quote is a commentary on the dangers of partisan bias and the erosion of objective moral and ethical standards in political discourse. By attending to how people react to comparisons in between political figures and Adolf Hitler, Avlon highlights a broader concern of selective outrage, where criticism is disproportionately applied based upon celebration affiliation rather than universal concepts.
The quote recommends that individuals frequently respond differently to political insults or contrasts depending on whether they are directed at a figure they support or oppose. If someone just expresses outrage when such an extreme contrast is made about their preferred prospect or leader, it suggests that their sense of offense is not rooted in the inappropriateness of the contrast itself, but rather in a protective position towards their political association. This behavior is indicative of a deeper issue in political culture: the prioritization of celebration commitment over constant ethical standards.
By referencing Hitler, a historical figure synonymous with totalitarianism and genocide, Avlon highlights the severity and inappropriateness of utilizing such contrasts gently. The frequent, casual invocation of Hitler in political discourse dangers trivializing the atrocities of the Holocaust and decreasing the gravity of present concerns. Hence, the quote challenges people to examine their responses and confront their predispositions when faced with political rhetoric.
Avlon's declaration suggests that real development in political discourse requires people to use the very same vital requirements and ethical judgments, despite party lines. To be "part of the problem" is to contribute to an environment where truth and principles are secondary to partisan obligation. Ultimately, the quote calls for introspection and a dedication to a more principled and less polarized political conversation, where individuals can critically evaluate and react to all types of hyperbolic rhetoric with consistency and stability.