Despite all the political misery I am confronted with every day, it still is my profound conviction that the very essence of politics is not dirty; dirt is brought in only by wicked people. I admit that this is an area of human activity where the temptation to advance through unfair actions may be stronger than elsewhere, and which thus makes higher demands on human integrity. But it is not true at all that a politician cannot do without lying or intriguing. That is sheer nonsense, often spread by those who want to discourage people from taking an interest in public affairs.

Václav Havel (1936-2011) Czech playwright, essayist, dissident, politician
Interview, International Herald Tribune (29 Oct 1991)

 
Added on 23-Mar-09 | Last updated 23-Mar-09
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