Leon Panetta: 'Today, I think the attitude is that governing is not necessarily good politics, and the result is that it's much more partisan and much more divided.'

Today, I think the attitude is that governing is not necessarily good politics, and the result is that it's much more partisan and much more divided.

In his statement, "Today, I think the attitude is that governing is not necessarily good politics, and the result is that it's much more partisan and much more divided," Leon Panetta accurately captures the prevailing sentiment in contemporary politics. His words emphasize the unfortunate reality of a political landscape that prioritizes party interests over effective governance. This quote shines a light on the detrimental consequences of this mindset - increased partisanship and division within society. Panetta's observation prompts a deeper philosophical exploration into the relationship between governing and politics.At first glance, Panetta's words may seem straightforward, highlighting the troubling state of governance in the present day. In essence, he posits that an overemphasis on political gain has overshadowed the primary purpose of governing - the betterment of society as a whole. This sentiment resonates with many individuals who have become disillusioned by a political system driven more by personal agendas and power struggles than by the genuine desire to address the needs and concerns of the people.However, delving deeper, Panetta's statement hints at a profound philosophical question: is governing inherently good or bad politics? Is it possible to govern effectively while still pleasing the varied interests and partisan demands in a democratic society?One school of thought argues that effective governance requires a level of detachment from partisan politics. This perspective suggests that making decisions solely to appease one's political base can hinder progress and prevent collaboration across party lines. Instead, governing should involve a more nuanced approach that takes into account the diverse needs of society as a whole. By prioritizing the collective well-being over short-term political gains, leaders can work towards more inclusive policies and ultimately reduce the deep divisions and polarization that plague the current political climate.On the other hand, another viewpoint argues that politics and governing are inherently intertwined. From this perspective, effective governance necessitates being attuned to the political realities and using them strategically to achieve desired outcomes. While this approach may have its merits in terms of political maneuvering, it runs the risk of prioritizing party interests over the greater good. The resulting partisan divide and increased polarization may alienate the very constituents politicians are meant to represent.Panetta's quote highlights the delicate balance between politics and governing. One must consider the role of compromise, negotiation, and bipartisanship in modern politics. These elements are crucial for bridging divides and finding common ground, ultimately promoting effective governance.In this context, one cannot ignore the potential role of ethical principles in governing. The ancient philosophical concept of the "golden mean" comes to mind - finding the perfect balance between extremes. In the context of politics and governance, this concept suggests that leaders should strive to strike a balance between political realities and the betterment of society. It urges politicians to rise above the partisan fray, embracing a philosophy of governance that seeks to transcend political divisions and cater to the greater good of the people.In conclusion, Leon Panetta's observation encapsulates the prevailing sentiment of today's political climate. The prioritization of political gain over effective governance has led to increased partisanship and division within society. While the balance between politics and governing is a nuanced and complex one, it is crucial for leaders to consider the broader needs of society and adopt a more inclusive approach. By embracing ethical principles and striving for a golden mean between partisan interests and the greater good, politicians can pave the way for a more united and effective system of governance. Only then can we hope to overcome the current era of divisiveness and work towards a future in which governing is once again seen as good politics.