The politician is the creature of the public sentiment- never goes ahead of it because he depends on it...
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Politicians rely on public opinion and rarely lead it, instead following the sentiments of the people to maintain support.
- In plain terms
- Politicians follow public opinion rather than leading it.
- What can you take from it?
- Public sentiment drives political action.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How much should leaders follow the public versus guide them?
- Can true change happen without leading public sentiment?
Another view
This view underestimates the role of visionary leaders who shape public opinion.
More from Lucy Stone
I was a woman before I was an abolitionist. I must speak for the women.
Permalink to quote #36 To make the public sentiment, on the side of all that is just and true and noble, is the highest use of life.
Permalink to quote #38 For these years I can only be a mother- no trivial thing, either.
Permalink to quote #35
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