When a man has his heart in the right place and good taste, he can not only do well in politics but is even predetermined for it. If someone is modest and does not yearn for power, he is certainly not ill-equipped to engage in politics; on the contrary, he belongs there. What is needed in politics is not the ability to lie but rather the sensibility to know when, where, how and to whom to say things.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Havel argues that moral character and taste are better qualifications for politics than ambition or deceit.
- In plain terms
- Good character and taste make someone fit for politics more than wanting power.
- What can you take from it?
- Politics needs moral sensibility over ambition.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What qualities should define a good politician?
- How do you balance ethics with realpolitik?
Another view
Political success often requires skills beyond moral sensibility.
More from Vaclav Havel
Despite all the political misery I am confronted with every day, it still is my profound conviction that the very essence of politics is not dirty; dirt is bro…
Permalink to quote #15 It is not true that people of high principles are ill-suited for politics. High principles have only to be accompanied by patience, consideration, a sense of m…
Permalink to quote #17 We are finding out that what looked like a neglected house a year ago is in fact a ruin.
Permalink to quote #14
Related quotes
[Alan Cranston] understood power not as a reflection of status but as a tool with a purpose.' - Sen. Joseph Biden December 31, 2000 on Meet the Press
Alan CranstonAlan Cranston quote #1 The problem of power is how to achieve its responsible use rather than its irresponsible and indulgent use - of how to get men of power to live for the public …
Robert F. KennedyRobert F. Kennedy quote #1 We are defined by how we use our power.
Gerry SpenceGerry Spence quote #1