The skill of the politician consists in guessing what…
“The skill of the politician consists in guessing what people can be brought to think advantageous to themselves; the skill of the expert consists in calculating what really is advantageous, provided people can be brought to think so.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Politicians shape public opinion for advantage; experts calculate true benefit assuming public can be persuaded.
In simple terms: Politicians manipulate thoughts; experts assess real good.
Key Takeaway
Beware of persuasion tactics.
Themes
politics
ethics
expertise
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy making
- consulting
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards protect against manipulation?
- How can experts communicate true benefits?
A Different Perspective
Assumes public is easily swayed.