Mark my word, if and when these preachers get control of the [Republican] party, and they're sure trying to do so, it's going to be a terrible damn problem. Frankly, these people frighten me. Politics and governing demand compromise. But these Christians believe they are acting in the name of God, so they can't and won't compromise. I know, I've tried to deal with them.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Goldwater expresses fear that religious preachers controlling the party will cause problems because they won't compromise.
- In plain terms
- He worries religious leaders can't compromise and thus can't govern.
- What can you take from it?
- Governing requires compromise, which religious absolutists often reject.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can faith-based policies allow compromise?
- Is governing incompatible with absolute beliefs?
Another view
It generalizes all religious people as unable to compromise.
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