Politics Quote by Robert M. Gates
““grew increasingly impatient and angry as I compared their selflessness and sacrifice with the self-promotion and selfishness of power-hungry politicians and others—in Baghdad, Kabul, and Washington.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Foreign Policy, 2005
Observing the stark contrast between selfless sacrifice and selfish power reveals deep frustration with political corruption across conflict zones.
In simple terms: Selfless sacrifice vs. selfish power creates frustration.
Demand accountability from leaders.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- journalistic investigation
- public advocacy
- humanitarian work
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can curb selfish behavior in politics?
- How can citizens hold power-hungry officials accountable?
Changing entrenched power structures is extremely difficult.