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About this quote

What does it mean?
Power is action, while the elective principle is discussion; politics cannot exist without constant debate.
In plain terms
Power needs action; politics needs ongoing discussion.
What can you take from it?
Engage in dialogue to make political power effective.

Where it applies

  • legislative sessions
  • public forums

Putting it to work

  • encourage open debate
  • balance action with deliberation

Questions to consider

  • When does discussion become unproductive?
  • How can action be taken without endless debate?

Another view

Continuous discussion can also lead to paralysis.

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