Able Quote by Giuliano Amato
“In Europe one needs to act ‘as if’ – as if what was wanted was little, in order to obtain much, as if States were to remain sovereign to convince them to concede sovereignty … The Commission in Brussels, for example, should act as if it were a technical instrument, in order to be able to be treated as a government. And so on by disguise and subterfuge.”
About This Quote
Acting as if a small role can achieve large goals requires strategic presentation.
In simple terms: Strategic role‑playing yields influence.
Key Takeaway
Present modestly to gain influence.
Themes
strategy
politics
power dynamics
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
strategic
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- policy making
- international relations
Key Concepts
realpolitik
diplomacy
institutional behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- When does pretense undermine credibility?
- Is authenticity more effective than disguise?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on façade can backfire.
