Alas Quote by Alexander McCall Smith
“Any extreme political creed brought only darkness in the long run; it lit up nothing. The best politics were those of caution, tolerance and moderation, Angus maintained, but such politics were, alas, also very dull, and certainly moved nobody to poetry.”
About This Quote
Extreme ideologies lead to stagnation; moderate, tolerant politics are dull but stable.
In simple terms: Extremes cause darkness; moderation is safe but uninspiring.
Key Takeaway
Embrace cautious, tolerant political engagement.
Themes
politics
moderation
tolerance
Mood
thoughtful
balanced
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- policy discussion
- community activism
Key Concepts
extremism
political apathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can moderate politics inspire action?
- What balances caution with progress?
A Different Perspective
Moderation may suppress passionate change.
![“The fundamental article of my political creed is that despotism, or limited sovereignty, or absolute power is the same [whether] in a majority of a popular assembly; an aristocratic council; or oligarchical junto and a single emperor - equally arbitrary, cruel, bloody and in every respect…” quote by John Adams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5c7/john-adams-529_absolute-power_the-fundamental-article-of-my-political_2130305.jpg)
![“If any doubt has arisen as to me, my country [Virginia] will have my political creed in the form of a "Declaration &c." which I was lately directed to draw. This will give decisive proof that my own sentiment concurred with the vote they instructed us to give.” quote by Thomas Jefferson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0a5/thomas-jefferson-43_country_if-any-doubt-has-arisen-as-to-me-my-coun_1434041.jpg)
