"It is normal for politicians in all countries to profess themselves the pupils of history, anxious to draw the right lessons from her teaching"
- Douglas Hurd
About this Quote
This quote by Douglas Hurd recommends that it is common for politicians to want to the past for assistance. They aspire to gain from the errors and successes of history in order to make the very best choices for their country. This is a smart technique, as it allows political leaders to prevent duplicating the same mistakes and to develop on the successes of the past. It likewise reveals that politicians are aware of the importance of history and the lessons it can teach. By studying history, politicians can gain a better understanding of the world and individuals they are governing. This quote highlights the value of history and the function it plays in informing the choices of political leaders.
"Learning and teaching should not stand on opposite banks and just watch the river flow by; instead, they should embark together on a journey down the water. Through an active, reciprocal exchange, teaching can strengthen learning how to learn"
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"
"We have our own history, our own language, our own culture. But our destiny is also tied up with the destinies of other people - history has made us all South Africans"
"It is humiliating to remain with our hands folded while others write history. It matters little who wins. To make a people great it is necessary to send them to battle even if you have to kick them in the pants. That is what I shall do"
