Politics is the art of the next best

Politics is the art of the next best

Otto von Bismarck, the renowned German statesman and architect of German unification, once famously said, "Politics is the art of the next best." This statement encapsulates the pragmatic and strategic approach that Bismarck employed throughout his political career. Bismarck's words reflect his belief in the necessity of compromise and the ability to achieve incremental progress in the face of complex and often conflicting interests.

Bismarck's political philosophy was rooted in the idea that in the realm of politics, it is often not possible to achieve the ideal outcome. Instead, politicians must navigate the complexities of power dynamics, competing interests, and unforeseen challenges to achieve the best possible outcome given the circumstances. This requires a keen understanding of the political landscape, the ability to anticipate and respond to changing conditions, and the willingness to make difficult decisions in pursuit of a larger goal.

Bismarck's own political career exemplified his belief in the art of the next best. As the Chancellor of the German Empire, Bismarck skillfully maneuvered through the turbulent waters of European politics, forging alliances, managing conflicts, and ultimately unifying the disparate German states into a powerful and cohesive nation. Bismarck's success was due in large part to his ability to adapt to changing circumstances, to make strategic compromises when necessary, and to maintain a clear focus on his long-term objectives.