Be nice Quote by Jose Manuel Barroso
“I very often compare relations between states to relations with people. Sometimes we are nicer to those we don't know well, who are not our friends, than we are to our friends, because with our friends we don't need to be nice all the time.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: European Council Summit, 2012
State relations differ from personal ones; we may be kinder to strangers than friends.
In simple terms: States act differently than individuals.
Key Takeaway
Treat allies with consistent respect.
Themes
diplomacy
friendship
trust
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- alliances
- conflict resolution
- personal networking
Key Concepts
international relations
social psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we sometimes favor strangers over friends?
- How can states show genuine respect to allies?
A Different Perspective
Political pragmatism can clash with personal values.
