Kin Hubbard: 'We would all like to vote for the best man but he is never a candidate.'

We would all like to vote for the best man but he is never a candidate.

The quote by Kin Hubbard, 'We would all like to vote for the best man but he is never a candidate,' carries a profound meaning that resonates with many of us. It highlights the unfortunate reality of our political systems, where the candidates who often rise to power may not necessarily possess the qualities and virtues that we consider to be the best. Hubbard's quote captures our desire to see capable and morally upright individuals take the lead, but also acknowledges the rarity of such candidates.This quote serves as a reminder of the imperfect nature of our political landscape. It prompts us to reflect on the qualities and characteristics we value in a leader, and it challenges us to question why these attributes are often absent in those who seek power. It recognizes the contradiction between the qualities we desire in a leader and the pragmatic choices we are forced to make from the available options.But let us take a moment to delve into a philosophical concept - the idea of the "Platonic ideal." In philosophy, Plato introduces the notion of ideal forms, or perfect representations, that exist beyond the realm of the physical world. These ideal forms embody the purest and most perfect version of something. Applying this concept to politics, we can contemplate the existence of an ideal candidate - someone who embodies all the virtues and qualities we believe a leader should possess.However, the disconnect between the ideal and the real world becomes apparent when we consider that no candidate may truly live up to this fictional perfect image. In the realm of politics, compromises, strategies, and external influences color the characteristics of those who seek power. The path to leadership requires compromises and navigating complex systems, often resulting in candidates who may not fully align with our notions of an ideal leader.This philosophical twist enhances our understanding of the quote by highlighting the inherent tension between the ideal and the practical. It makes us question whether it is possible for us to ever find a candidate who truly embodies all the qualities we value. It also forces us to evaluate our own expectations and consider whether our requirements for a "best man" are realistic or perhaps unattainable.Ultimately, Hubbard's quote and the introduction of the Platonic ideal provoke us to rethink our approach to politics and leadership. Do we lower our expectations and settle for the "lesser of two evils" or those who align more closely with our values, even if they fall short of the ideal? Can we, collectively as citizens, influence the political landscape to create an environment where the best candidates do emerge?In conclusion, Kin Hubbard's quote reminds us of the perpetual struggle to find the best candidate in the political arena. While it may be disheartening to realize that the best man is rarely a candidate, it also serves as an opportunity to reevaluate our expectations, recalibrate our ideals, and strive for a political system that fosters the emergence of leaders who are truly deserving of our vote. It challenges us to be active participants in the process, advocating for change and engaging in discussions that prioritize the qualities and virtues we hold dear in our leaders. Only by doing so can we navigate the complexities of politics and inch closer to the realization of the best man as a viable candidate.