Richard Armour: 'Politics, it seems to me, for years, or all too long, has been concerned with right or left instead of right or wrong.'

Politics, it seems to me, for years, or all too long, has been concerned with right or left instead of right or wrong.

In his famous quote, Richard Armour succinctly captures a common sentiment about politics - that it often prioritizes ideological divisions (right or left) over ethical considerations (right or wrong). This observation highlights a longstanding problem within the realm of politics, where party lines and ideological affiliations often hold more weight than moral integrity and doing what is right for society as a whole.At first glance, Armour's quote may strike a chord with many individuals, as political discourse often devolves into partisan battles where winning for one's side becomes more important than seeking truth or promoting the common good. The focus on right or left, a spectrum of political ideologies, has led to a divisive environment that often hinders progress. In this regard, the quote serves as a call for a greater emphasis on ethical judgments when evaluating political decisions.However, beyond this straightforward interpretation of the quote lies an opportunity to introduce a philosophical concept that can offer a fresh perspective. Existentialism, a philosophical approach that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility, can shed light on the deeper implications of Armour's observation. Through this lens, politics can be seen as a reflection of broader existential challenges faced by society.Existentialism explores the individual's struggle to find meaning in a seemingly chaotic and absurd world. Similarly, the pursuit of right or left in politics often masks a deeper search for meaning and purpose. Parties align with specific ideologies to create a sense of identity and belonging, attempting to navigate the complexities of the political landscape. However, this fixation on right or left can lead to a neglect of the truly crucial question at hand – what is right or wrong?In this existential context, politics becomes a microcosm of the human condition. Both individuals and political systems grapple with the tension between personal interests and moral responsibility. We must acknowledge that political decisions have real-life consequences, affecting the lives of countless individuals. By prioritizing right or wrong over right or left, politics can transcend mere ideological battles and become a pathway towards a more ethical society.To illustrate this point, let us consider an example. Imagine a hypothetical debate on an environmental policy. Rather than focusing solely on which side of the political spectrum supports or opposes the policy, the discourse should center around the question of whether the policy is morally justifiable and beneficial for the environment. Such an approach would encourage discussions rooted in ethics, scientific research, and the well-being of future generations, rather than personal interests or party affiliations.In conclusion, Richard Armour's quote highlights the prevailing problem in politics – the prioritization of right or left over right or wrong. However, by delving into the philosophy of existentialism, we uncover a deeper layer of understanding. The existential struggle for meaning and purpose finds manifestation in the political arena, making it crucial for us to shift our focus from ideological differences towards moral integrity and ethical decision-making. By embracing the importance of right or wrong, politics can become a transformative force, guiding society towards progress, empathy, and a collectively brighter future.