Double standards Quote by Samuel P. Huntington
““Hypocrisy, double standards, and "but nots" are the price of universalist pretensions. Democracy is promoted, but not if it brings Islamic fundamentalists to power; nonproliferation is preached for Iran and Iraq, but not for Israel; free trade is the elixir of economic growth, but not for agriculture; human rights are an issue for China, but not with Saudi Arabia; aggression against oil-owning Kuwaitis is massively repulsed, but not against non-oil-owning Bosnians. Double standards in practice are the unavoidable price of universal standards of principle.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order, 1996
Universalist ideals often clash with realpolitik, leading to selective application of principles.
In simple terms: Principles are applied unevenly in practice.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge double standards.
Themes
politics
ethics
international relations
hypocrisy
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- foreign policy
- human rights advocacy
- trade negotiations
- media analysis
Key Concepts
realism
selective enforcement
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we reconcile ideals with strategic interests?
- What mechanisms can ensure consistent application of principles?
A Different Perspective
Selective enforcement can undermine credibility of universal claims.
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