As Hillary and Barack struggle to cement their position as front runners, and John McCain attempts to hold steady, as newer Republican entrants to the race attempt to take his place, the savvy voter must weigh the pros and cons of charisma. We must consider the natural charisma of the candidates, or the lack thereof, as well as the media induced aura of power or capability they may bear. Once considered this element must be weighed and set aside in order to better consider the candidates' political records and current platforms. Will your candidate of choice provide America with what you want, or are they simply presenting what you want to hear--exercising the art of gentle persuasion?
Quotes for the Week
"Charismatic leadership is hungered for, but at the same time we fear it."
Kevin WhiteMayor of Boston, MA (Democrat)Quoted in Time, February 9, 1976
"I began revolution with 82 men. If I had to do it again, I would do it with 10 or 15 and absolute faith. It does not matter how small you are if you have faith and plan of action."
Fidel CastroPresident of Cuba1959
"A charismatic president has a secret weapon: the public."
Elmer E. Cornwell Jr.Political ScientistQuoted in Emily Gold, "White House Strategists," Brown Alumni Monthly, November / December 2000
"It is possible to lead astray an entire generation, to strike it blind, to drive it insane, to direct it towards a false goal. Napoleon proved this."
Alexander Herzen, 1812-1870Russian PhilosopherFrom the Other Shore, 1855
"There are different ways to be charismatic."
William Clinton42nd President of the United States (Democrat, AR)Statement regarding the incoming British Prime Minister, Gordon BrownQuoted on BBC World, May 11, 2007
"Marvelous is the power which can be exercised, almost unconsciously, over a company, or an individual, or even upon a crowd by one person gifted with good temper, good digestion, good intellects, and good looks."
Anthony Trollope, 1815-1882British NovelistRachel Ray, 1863
"After eight years of charisma [John V. Lindsay] and four years of the clubhouse [Abraham S. Beame], why not try competence?"
Koch, Edward I.
Document number: 24946
Quotes appear Courtesy: Eigen's Political & Historical Quotations
No comments:
Post a Comment