Bad government Quote by Ezra Pound
““Yes, but bad language is bound to make in addition bad government, whereas good language is not bound to make bad government. That again is clear Confucius: if the orders aren’t clear they can’t be carried out. Lloyd George’s laws were such a mess, the lawyers never knew what they meant. And Talleyrand proclaimed that they changed the meaning of words between one conference and another. The means of communication breaks down, and that of course is what we are suffering now. We are enduring the drive to work on the subconscious without appealing to the reason. They repeat a trade name with the music a few times, and then repeat the music without it so that the music will give you the name. I think of the assault. We suffer from the use of language to conceal thought and to withhold all vital and direct answers. There is the definite use of propaganda, forensic language, merely to conceal and mislead.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Language of Politics” (hypothetical), 1920
Clarity in language is essential for effective governance; vague or manipulative language leads to corruption and misunderstanding.
In simple terms: Clear words help good government; bad words harm it.
Key Takeaway
Promote precise, honest communication.
Themes
politics
language
governance
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative drafting
- public speaking
- media analysis
- education
Key Concepts
communication theory
propaganda
law
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does modern political language affect public trust?
- What steps can improve clarity in law?
A Different Perspective
Complex ideas may be oversimplified here.
