I don't like politicians, and I don't like politics. I
I don't like politicians, and I don't like politics. I definitely don't want to be associated with any of them.
Steven Wright’s words—"I don’t like politicians, and I don’t like politics. I definitely don’t want to be associated with any of them."—resound as the cry of one weary of human schemes. In this declaration is not only humor, but also the deep sigh of a soul who sees the vanity of men striving for power. The disdain for politicians is the disdain for masks, for words spoken not from the heart, but from ambition. To reject politics is to seek a purer path, one untainted by deceit or endless quarrel.
From the dawn of nations, men have looked with suspicion upon those who rule. For they saw that too often politicians clothed themselves in promises but delivered little more than self-interest. The saying is a rejection of such corruption, a refusal to be entangled in the games of intrigue. To speak so is to guard the soul, to declare: I will not wear the garments of falsehood, nor sit among those whose tongues are sharper than their deeds.
History confirms this wisdom. Consider Diogenes of Sinope, the Cynic philosopher. He scorned the courts and assemblies of Athens, mocking the politicians who boasted of serving the people while hungering for power. When Alexander the Great offered him favor, Diogenes asked only that the king step out of his sunlight. In that moment, he declared himself free from politics and its trappings. Like Wright, he desired no association with rulers, choosing instead the sovereignty of his own spirit.
Yet within this rejection lies also a subtle teaching. To distrust politicians and politics is not to abandon the pursuit of justice, but to remind us that true virtue does not depend on titles or offices. A farmer tending his field with honesty, a mother raising her children with love, a teacher guiding his students with wisdom—all may serve their community better than the loudest voice in the senate. The greatness of humanity is not confined to the halls of power.
Let future generations remember: to be suspicious of politics is not folly, but caution; to refuse the company of hollow politicians is not weakness, but strength. For the true measure of a person is not in the offices they hold, but in the integrity with which they live. Wright’s words, though spoken with humor, carry the ancient wisdom that the noblest association is not with rulers, but with truth itself.
QNQuynh Nhu
Steven Wright’s rejection of both politicians and politics raises an interesting point about the state of modern governance. Does his comment stem from a lack of trust in the political system, or does it reflect a desire for a different kind of leadership? Can individuals like Wright, who reject traditional politics, still contribute meaningfully to society? Is there a space for those outside the political sphere to push for positive change?
TVthao vy
Steven Wright’s disillusionment with politics and politicians is a sentiment that has become more common, especially in the wake of political polarization. How do we address the apathy or cynicism that arises from this viewpoint? If people feel this way, how can we encourage meaningful participation in the political process? Is the solution to create a more transparent, accountable system, or is it about finding other ways to influence change without directly engaging with politics?
H7Vo minh han 7-9b
Wright's words suggest a sense of detachment from politics that resonates with many who feel that the political system is broken. Is it possible to still care about societal issues and make a difference without being tied to a specific party or political figure? Could this quote reflect a desire for change outside the traditional political arena, like grassroots movements or independent advocacy? What alternatives are there for those who reject conventional politics?
PANguyen Phuong Anh
Steven Wright’s statement about his disdain for politicians and politics could reflect the growing disillusionment many people feel towards the political system. Does this quote highlight the frustration that comes with feeling disconnected from the political process? Is this sentiment common in today's political climate, where it feels like politicians often act in their own interests rather than those of the people? Can we still be engaged citizens without embracing the typical political structures?