The people can never understand why the President does not use his powers to make them behave. Well all the president is, is a glorified public relations man who spends his time flattering, kissing, and kicking people to get them to do what they are supposed to do anyway.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Truman argues the president lacks direct power to enforce behavior and instead uses persuasion.
- In plain terms
- The president cannot force people to act but must persuade them to do what is right.
- What can you take from it?
- Presidential power relies on influence, not coercion.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What limits presidential power?
- How does a president influence behavior?
Another view
The quote downplays the president’s formal powers.
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