"Democracy is not a spectator sport."
This quote by Joe Conason emphasizes that democracy requires active participation from its citizens, rather than passive observation. It suggests that to maintain the health and vitality of a democratic society, it is essential for individuals to engage in the political process, vote, and participate in discussions about governance and the common good. In essence, being an engaged and informed citizen is crucial for preserving democracy.
"The truth often lies at the intersection of fact and justice."
This quote by Joe Conason highlights that the pursuit of truth is not merely about collecting facts, but also about aligning those facts with what is just or fair. In other words, the truth can be found where the evidence (fact) supports the principles of fairness, justice, and morality. It underscores the importance of understanding not only the details of a situation but also its ethical implications when seeking the truth.
"In politics, as in life, it's always better to be lucky than good."
This quote suggests that while having skills and competence (being "good") is important in politics, luck also plays a significant role in one's success. It implies that sometimes, circumstances or unpredictable events can contribute more to political advancement than personal abilities alone. In essence, the quote reminds us of the interplay between skill, hard work, and fortune in achieving success in any field, including politics.
"Power is never satisfied with its own limits."
Joe Conason's quote, "Power is never satisfied with its own limits," suggests that those in positions of power are inherently driven to expand or increase their influence. This desire for growth or expansion is not contentment but rather a relentless pursuit, as power tends to view boundaries as opportunities for further control and dominance. The quote serves as a reminder that the ambition for power knows no bounds and often results in the overreach and misuse of authority if unchecked.
"Hypocrisy is the tribute that vice pays to virtue."
This quote by Joe Conason suggests that vices, or negative behaviors, often attempt to conceal themselves as virtues, or positive qualities, in order to be accepted and respected in a society that values morality and goodness. In other words, people who engage in immoral or unethical behavior may present themselves as upstanding citizens, while secretly acting contrary to their professed beliefs or values. This hypocrisy is a way of paying tribute or showing respect to virtue, but only superficially, without truly embracing the authentic qualities that genuine virtue represents.
Not surprisingly, some of the super-rich declined to join the Patriotic Millionaires when the Agenda Project reached out to them. At least two airily dismissed the Bush tax cuts for millionaires and above - which will cost well over $700 billion over the coming decade - as small potatoes.
- Joe Conason
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