Politics is not an end, but a means. It is not a product…
“Politics is not an end, but a means. It is not a product, but a process. It is the art of government. Like other values it has its counterfeits. So much emphasis has been placed upon the false that the significance of the true has been obscured and politics has come to convey the meaning of crafty and cunning selfishness, instead of candid and sincere service.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Politics is a tool for governance, not a final goal; its true purpose is public service, often obscured by self‑interest and deception.
In simple terms: Politics is a means, not an end.
Key Takeaway
Focus on sincere service over personal gain.
Themes
government
ethics
service
power
integrity
Mood
reflective
critical
hopeful
Type
philosophical
political
inspirational
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy making
- public administration
- civic engagement
Key Concepts
public administration
political philosophy
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens ensure politics serves the common good?
- What safeguards protect against political self‑interest?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic view may overlook power dynamics and pragmatic constraints.