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What I've found in being around political people is…

“What I've found in being around political people is they're willing to negotiate their ideology somewhere around 5 percent. They believe that's really stepping out. And it's really hard to do business when you only move 5 percent from your ideology.” quote by Stephen A. Schwarzman
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“What I've found in being around political people is they're willing to negotiate their ideology somewhere around 5 percent. They believe that's really stepping out. And it's really hard to do business when you only move 5 percent from your ideology.”

Stephen A. Schwarzman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People often claim flexibility but only shift a tiny fraction of core beliefs, making genuine compromise rare.

In simple terms: Political people barely adjust their views.

Key Takeaway

Recognize true flexibility in negotiations.

Themes

politics negotiation ideology business

Mood

skeptical realistic

Type

analytical pragmatic

When to use this quote

  • political negotiations
  • business deals
  • policy making

Key Concepts

Cognitive bias confirmation bias strategic rigidity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you test if someone’s flexibility is genuine?
  • What incentives encourage deeper ideological change?
A Different Perspective

Even a 5% shift may be symbolic, not substantive.

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