The theme of virtue in public life has been discussed since the time of Aristotle. In an era of "anti-heroes" it sometimes seems like the concept of virtue has been lost. Thus, I am wondering if anyone can think of any examples of when a political figure has has demonstrated virtue.
Philadelphia, PA
Dear Mutter,
Good question. It seems quite constructive.
Generally, virtue in a politician is demonstrated by commitment to the common good of society and of the polity: in the language of the U.S. constitution, this is a commitment to "the general welfare." There is a kind of disinterestedness involved in which the politician puts aside narrow and divisive directions of politics and policy. We expect our political representatives to represent the interests of their constituents, but also to be elected with their own moral conscience in place and with a deep concern for the society in general. I think we have to be skeptical of politicians closely following demographic trends, employing advertising techniques and pandering to divisive public sentiment.
What I think to nominate is President Obama's rejection, early and late, of divisive identity politics. Beyond that, I recall his opposition, as a U.S. Senator, to the start of the war in Iraq. Many prominent members of his party, along with much of the critical media, simply folded on the issue.
H.G. Callaway
Which Leads to Greater Political Power: Virtue or Vice?
Please see the following link
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/which-leads-to-greater-political-power-virtue-or-vice/
Best Regards Kelvin Mutter
Callaway has nominated Obama's stand on the war in a Iraq as a possible example of virtue. As a Canadian observer, I wonder if Sen. John McCain's decision to vote against the Graham-Cassidy bill on health care may be another example of a politician who was concerned for the interests of his constituents and who followed his conscience?
Loe líderes políticos deben mostrar su actitud a través de su preparación académica con ética, y manejar la cosa publica como un buen padre de familia, ser decentes , honestos y seres humanos.
Nahin, tal vez tienes un ejemplo specifico en que un lider politico se comparto en una manera etica?
A question has come to mind. . . "In an era of skepticism and governance by polls, perhaps there is a need for a time buffer between a politician's actions and our being able to identify if an action is virtuous?"
By upholding the common good and ensuring that the interests of the greater majority of the nation are safe guarded. They must also ensure the good handling of the commonwealth and heritage of the people; eschew selfishness and self service and look at the big picture for the nation rather than serving narrow interests.
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