For my part, I favour an approach to statecraft that embraces principles, as long as it is not stifled by them; and I prefer such principles to be accompanied by steel along with good intentions.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Thatcher advocates for principled governance but insists on flexibility and strength to enforce those principles.
- In plain terms
- Be guided by values but stay flexible and strong enough to act on them.
- What can you take from it?
- Principles need enforcement and adaptability to be effective.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you balance ideals with practicality?
- When should principles be compromised?
Another view
Rigid adherence to principles can hinder necessary compromise.
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