Political leaders who act in the public interest

23 August 2021 by IdeaSpies

Governance

Edmund Burke (statesman, economist, and philosopher) expressed expectations of our political leaders well: “Your representative owes you, not his industry only, but his judgment; and he betrays you instead of serving you if he sacrifices it to your opinion.”

Too often these days our leaders conduct opinion polls to decide their policies and use political advisors to determine their actions rather than government officials. They are more interested in winning the next election rather than serving in the public interest.

A current case in point is leading us out of lockdowns. Decisive action is needed that matches promises.

https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/clash-looms-over-prime-minister-s-lockdown-exit-target-20210822-p58kw9.html

What do you think?

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Comments

Glenn Barnes @ 2021.08.26 6:15 PM

Right on the money, Lynn!

Politicians are currently so focused on the 'politics' of every move they make that clearly and openly leading the public discourse and decision making on the big issues we face is pushed aside. (Broken promises and deceptive statements are standard behaviours!)

The ugly truth is that we, the electorate, have let this untenable situation develop through a lack of engagement in our liberal democratic processes.

If we citizens do not step up and take action, our democracy will continue to fail to meet our needs.

Get involved: https://www.democraticrenewal.org.au/

IdeaSpies @ 2021.08.27 6:19 PM
Good point Glenn- it would be good if the press highlighted broken promises more and helped to condemn the practice. It's negative news that would have a positive outcome.

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