John Dickerson: 'That's what politics is. It's the story of what's happening, what does it mean, what's the conclusion, who are the interesting characters?'

That's what politics is. It's the story of what's happening, what does it mean, what's the conclusion, who are the interesting characters?

In his concise yet profound statement, John Dickerson captures the essence of politics as a captivating narrative. The quote emphasizes the crucial elements that define politics – the events unfolding, their significance, the resolutions drawn, and the individuals involved. It underscores the idea that politics, at its core, is a complex and ever-evolving story that shapes our societies.At first glance, Dickerson's words appear straightforward, highlighting the narrative aspect of politics and its key components. However, beneath the surface, it is crucial to explore the philosophical implications of this concept. By delving into an unexpected philosophical perspective, we can truly appreciate the depth and richness of Dickerson's quote.One philosophical lens through which we can contemplate the quote is narratology, a discipline that focuses on the study of narratives and storytelling. Narratology suggests that narratives have a fundamental impact on our understanding of the world and our place within it. By viewing politics through this lens, we can analyze how political narratives shape our perceptions, beliefs, and actions.The power of storytelling in politics becomes evident when we observe how leaders and politicians use narratives to connect with their constituents. They craft compelling stories to elicit emotions, rally support, and convey their vision for society. These narratives, often accompanied by charismatic characters, can shape public opinion and drive political discourse.Furthermore, politics itself can be seen as a series of interconnected narratives, where each policy decision or event contributes to the overarching storyline. Just as in a gripping novel or film, characters within the political realm evolve and face challenges, bringing depth and intrigue to the narrative. The drama, conflicts, and unexpected turns that unfold in politics mirror the complexities of any well-crafted story.However, the philosophical exploration of politics as storytelling also exposes potential dangers and ethical implications. Narratives, while influential, can be manipulative and distort reality. Political players may carefully construct narratives that convey a particular viewpoint, selectively omitting certain facts or characters to shape public perception in their favor.Moreover, the focus on narratives in politics can give rise to the tendency to prioritize style over substance. Politicians might employ powerful storytelling techniques to captivate audiences, diverting attention from critical issues that need addressing. This elevation of style over substance can lead to the perpetuation of superficial narratives that fail to tackle pressing social, economic, and environmental problems.A thought-provoking aspect to consider is the interplay between politics as storytelling and the gradual erosion of objective truth in the digital age. With the proliferation of social media and the ease of disseminating information, narratives can spread rapidly, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. The malleability of narratives in this context challenges the notion of a singular story or conclusive interpretation of political events.In conclusion, John Dickerson's quote encapsulates the essence of politics as a captivating narrative, comprising unfolding events, their meaning, resolutions, and the intriguing characters involved. When viewed through the philosophical lens of narratology, it becomes apparent how narratives shape our understanding of politics and influence our actions. However, this examination also reveals potential pitfalls, such as the manipulation of narratives and the tendency to prioritize style over substance. Overall, understanding politics as a story provides a framework through which we can navigate the complex tapestry that shapes our societies.