Henry Kissinger: 'The illegal we do immediately. The unconstitutional takes a little longer.'

The illegal we do immediately. The unconstitutional takes a little longer.

In his famous quote, Henry Kissinger provocatively suggests that while actions that are deemed illegal can be executed swiftly, those considered unconstitutional may take a bit more time to formalize. At face value, this quote can be seen as a reflection of the political expediency often observed in the pursuit of power. It highlights a disturbing aspect of governance where those in positions of authority may prioritize short-term gains over the long-term interests of the people they are appointed to serve. However, let us explore a different perspective, one that delves into unexpected philosophical concepts, allowing us to grasp a more profound understanding of the quote's importance.The notion of legality versus constitutionality is deeply intertwined with the concept of morality. While an act might be legal, it may not necessarily align with the principles and values embedded in a nation's constitution. This is where the tension lies - between the legality imposed by the rule of law and the underlying values by which a nation governs itself. Kissinger's quote astutely captures this tension by implying that illegal acts can be executed immediately, suggesting potential disregard for the law, while acknowledging that the violation of constitutional principles requires more intricate maneuvering.To further explore this dichotomy, we can turn to the philosophical concept of consequentialism. Consequentialism posits that the morality or immorality of an act is determined solely by its outcomes. In this framework, legality and constitutionality take a backseat to the desired consequences. Kissinger's quote, though originating from a political context, aligns remarkably well with this philosophical idea. By acknowledging that illegal acts can be done immediately, Kissinger implies that the benefits of the action might overshadow the risks or moral qualms associated with its legality. In contrast, the slower approach to achieving unconstitutional goals suggests a recognition of the inherent conflicts such actions may provoke, potentially requiring a more intricate approach.In delving deeper into this philosophical realm, we encounter a contrasting perspective in deontological ethics. Deontological ethics prioritizes the inherent morality of an act, rather than focusing on its consequences. It highlights the importance of adhering to moral principles in guiding our actions. From this standpoint, the inherent problem in Kissinger's quote becomes evident. By suggesting that the illegal can be done immediately, it implies a potential disregard for the moral boundaries set by the law, undermining the importance of adhering to legal principles for the sake of moral consistency.The quote by Henry Kissinger, therefore, invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between legality, constitutionality, and morality. It raises questions about the values we prioritize in our governance systems, the extent to which we should suspend legality for expedience, and the potential consequences of such actions on society. Moreover, it challenges us to critically examine the foundations of our legal and political systems, prompting us to reevaluate the balance between immediate outcomes and long-term moral integrity.In conclusion, the quote by Henry Kissinger captures a tension that exists between the immediate and the enduring, the expediency of the illegal and the intricacies of the unconstitutional. By introducing unexpected philosophical concepts, we can further dissect the quote's implications and grasp a more nuanced understanding of its importance. It encourages us to contemplate the underlying values and ethical frameworks within which our governance operates, provoking us to question whether the pursuit of short-term gains should ever come at the expense of long-term moral consistency.