AN 4.115 highlights something that seems to be a major problem in politics:
"As for the course of action that is unpleasant to do but that, when done, leads to what is profitable, it is in light of this course of action that one may be known — in terms of manly stamina, manly persistence, manly effort — as a fool or a wise person. For a fool doesn't reflect, 'Even though this course of action is unpleasant to do, still when it is done it leads to what is profitable.' So he doesn't do it, and thus the non-doing of that course of action leads to what is unprofitable for him. But a wise person reflects, 'Even though this course of action is unpleasant to do, still when it is done it leads to what is profitable.' So he does it, and thus the doing of that course of action leads to what is profitable for him.
In a democracy this type of course of action seems particularly difficult to accomplish unless a majority of citizens are willing to put up with the unpleasantness. Politicians are generally unwilling to even suggest such a course of action, even if it's the correct one, the best one. Most people just want things given to them with no sacrifice. People become spoiled, decadent.
It is mostly on this point that democracies either succeed or fail.
2 comments:
That's a good point. So much many things seem to be ignored or allowed to get out of control before something is done.
When I read this piece I thought of exercise as a good example. It's not pleasant sometimes but moderate exercise is a wise thing to do in order to maintain ones health and protect oneself against disease in the future.
People seem to be awfully shortsighted on many issues, not only with politics but in their own lives as well. I find it fascinating that you continue to dig up suttas where the Buddha gives us wisdom and guidance for not only the spiritual life but the worldly as well. Be well in your practice.
Thanks for the comments. Well, the Tipitaka takes up 5 linear feet of shelf space so I should have plenty of material for quite some time. :)
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