Compromise Quote by John Lewis Gaddis
““...They went from regarding these compromises as regrettable to considering them necessary, then normal, then even desirable.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Cold War: A New History by John Lewis Gaddis, 2005
Compromises evolve from being seen as regrettable to becoming normalized and even desirable over time.
In simple terms: Attitudes toward compromises can shift dramatically.
Beware how repeated justification can legitimize questionable deals.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy negotiation
- international treaties
- corporate agreements
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What factors drive the acceptance of previously condemned actions?
- How can societies guard against moral erosion?
Normalization can mask underlying costs and risks.