Acting Quote by John C. Calhoun
“Measures of policy are necessarily controlled by circumstances; and, consequently, what may be wise and expedient under certain circumstances might be eminently unwise and impolitic under different circumstances. To persist in acting in the same way under circumstances essentially different would be folly and obstinacy, and not consistency.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Treatise, John C. Calhoun, 19th century
Policies must adapt to changing conditions; applying the same approach in different contexts is foolish and rigid.
In simple terms: Adapt policies to circumstances.
Key Takeaway
Be flexible, not obstinate.
Themes
politics
adaptability
consistency
wisdom
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government decision making
- crisis management
- legislative strategy
- organizational leadership
Key Concepts
situational ethics
policy analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess when circumstances have changed?
- What mechanisms ensure policy flexibility?
A Different Perspective
Rigid adherence can ignore new information and cause harm.
