"This source of corruption, alas, is inherent in the democratic system itself, and it can only be controlled, if at all, by finding ways to encourage legislators to subordinate ambition to principle"
- James L. Buckley
About this Quote
In this quote, James L. Buckley discuss the inherent vulnerabilities of democratic systems to corruption. He recommends that the capacity for corruption is not simply a defect of private politicians or external influences. Rather, it is ingrained within the very structure of democracy. This observation implies that democratic systems, in their pursuit of representing diverse interests and being open to different impacts, may accidentally create opportunities for corruption. Buckley appears to acknowledge that such corruption is not an aberration however a natural by-product of a democratic framework that stresses individual ambition and competitors.
The expression "if at all" conveys hesitation about the possibility of completely removing corruption within a democracy. It recommends that while control is imaginable, accomplishing it is exceedingly challenging. The intrinsic forces of aspiration-- politicians' desires for power, reelection, and impact-- frequently encounter concepts such as stability and civil service. Buckley underscores the problem in limiting the personal ambitions of lawmakers, which can result in focusing on self-interest over the common good.
Nevertheless, Buckley does not suggest that the fight versus corruption is useless. Instead, he advocates for the support of legislators to prioritize concepts over personal gains. This involves developing systems, rewards, and cultures that cultivate and reward integrity, transparency, and accountability. Encouraging such a shift needs crafting policies that align individual aspirations with public well-being, possibly through improved ethical guidelines, campaign finance reform, and higher public analysis.
In sum, Buckley's quote reveals a nuanced understanding of the delicate balance democracies should preserve. It highlights the tension in between aspiration and concept as a main challenge within democratic systems and requires innovative techniques to navigate these intricacies and protect the integrity of democratic governance.
"Me only have one ambition, y'know. I only have one thing I really like to see happen. I like to see mankind live together - black, white, Chinese, everyone - that's all"
"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved"
"The average Hollywood film star's ambition is to be admired by an American, courted by an Italian, married to an Englishman and have a French boyfriend"
