Emmanuel Macron: 'If approval was a criterion in this country, nothing would ever get done.'

If approval was a criterion in this country, nothing would ever get done.

In his remark, French President Emmanuel Macron captured a common frustration experienced by decision-makers in many countries: the need for constant approval and consensus hampering progress. The quote expresses the notion that if decision-making was contingent upon seeking approval from every individual in a country, nothing would ever be accomplished. This straightforward interpretation reveals the essence of Macron's frustration with the perpetual gridlock that can arise from excessive consensus-seeking. However, let us delve deeper into the quote's meaning by introducing an unexpected philosophical concept – the paradoxical nature of autonomy.Autonomy, often considered a virtuous attribute, enables individuals to make independent choices based on their own judgment and principles. It grants people the freedom to act without the constant need for external approval. From a philosophical standpoint, autonomy is deeply interconnected with individual agency and responsibility, giving rise to a sense of purpose and self-determination. However, this very concept of autonomy, combined with the importance of collective decision-making, presents a captivating paradox.While seeking approval for every decision can impede progress, it is crucial to acknowledge that decisions made in isolation, without the input and perspectives of others, may overlook valuable insights and lead to flawed outcomes. The paradox of autonomy lies in the delicate balance between individual agency and the power of collective wisdom, raising questions regarding the appropriate degree of approval and consensus required for effective decision-making.Consider, for instance, a hypothetical scenario in which a government aims to implement a new policy. Relying solely on autonomy, without considering the perspectives and needs of the general populace, may breed discontent, as decisions made without consultation risk neglecting the diverse range of experiences and opinions within society. On the other hand, too much emphasis on approval-seeking can result in endless debates, compromises, and delays, hindering progress and missing opportunities for positive change.To resolve this paradox, society must strive to strike a delicate balance between individual autonomy and collective decision-making. It entails fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are not only acknowledged but actively sought out and included in the decision-making process. By doing so, the true power of consensus can be harnessed, enabling progress without sacrificing the autonomy of decision-makers.A pertinent example showcasing this balance can be found in the domain of governance. Many democratic systems implement representative governments to ensure decisions are made on behalf of the people. Elected officials, entrusted with the autonomy to represent their constituencies, have a responsibility to consider the diverse interests and voices of their constituents. By embracing this approach, political systems aim to balance the need for decisive action with the pursuit of broad-based agreement, ultimately achieving effective governance.Furthermore, the paradox of autonomy applies not only to government decisions but also to other spheres of life. In the realm of business, for instance, team leaders may strive to strike a balance between offering their employees autonomy to undertake tasks in their preferred manner, while still seeking their input and alignment with the overall vision. This delicate equilibrium can fuel innovation, foster a sense of ownership, and produce remarkable results.In conclusion, Macron's quote encapsulates the frustration with the stifling nature of excessive approval-seeking in decision-making processes. However, diving deeper into the quote reveals a captivating paradox: the delicate balance between individual autonomy and collective decision-making. By recognizing and navigating this paradox, societies can strike a balance that respects the autonomy of decision-makers while tapping into the collective wisdom of diverse perspectives. Moreover, this delicate equilibrium paves the way for effective governance, fosters innovation, and ultimately drives progress in various spheres of life.