"What is politics but persuading the public to vote for this and support that and endure these for the promise of those?"
- Gilbert Highet
About this Quote
This quote by Gilbert Highet is a reflection on the nature of politics. It suggests that politics is basically about encouraging the public to elect certain policies, support certain initiatives, and accept certain difficulties in exchange for the pledge of future benefits. This quote indicates that politics is a type of persuasion, which politicians should be able to successfully communicate their concepts and goals to the public in order to get their support. It also recommends that political leaders need to have the ability to make persuading arguments and guarantees in order to gain the public's trust and commitment. Ultimately, this quote indicates that politics is a complex and tough undertaking that requires a lot of ability and finesse.
"Well, I think any time you delve into this sort of religion, politics, as you well know, you're going to, you know, touch a few nerves. I wasn't - now - and this is the honest truth"