What is politics? Political system is equal to development
What is politics? Political system is equal to development politics plus political politics.
Hear, O seekers of wisdom, the words of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, the people’s President of India, who joined science with statesmanship: “What is politics? Political system is equal to development politics plus political politics.” In this utterance, he sought to unravel the mystery of power and governance, showing that a true political system is not one thing but two—development politics that builds the future, and political politics that manages the contests of power.
For development politics is the noble path, the work of leaders who dream not for themselves but for their people. It is the laying of roads, the nurturing of schools, the strengthening of science, the lifting of the poor into dignity. Kalam, born of humble beginnings, understood this deeply; his life in science and education was itself a testimony to the power of development to transform nations. Without it, politics is an empty shell, concerned only with survival and rivalry.
Yet he also spoke of political politics—the unavoidable struggles, the alliances, the debates, and the conflicts that shape governance. These are not evil in themselves, for every nation requires contest and competition to balance interests and prevent tyranny. But when political politics swallows development politics, the system rots; leaders quarrel for power while the people wait in hunger and neglect.
History bears witness. In post-independence India, Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision of dams, universities, and scientific progress embodied development politics, seeking to transform the new nation into a modern power. Yet as years passed, factionalism and corruption—the excesses of political politics—began to weigh heavily, slowing progress. Kalam’s words arose from this tension, urging his people to remember that true politics must serve growth, not merely power.
Therefore, let this wisdom endure: the strength of a political system is found in its balance. Without development, politics is barren; without politics, development has no channel. Kalam’s teaching calls upon leaders to remember that the heart of governance is not the thirst for office, but the building of futures. For when development and politics walk together in harmony, nations rise; but when they are divided, both the people and the state fall into decay.
NVthanh nguyen van
Kalam’s definition of politics raises an interesting question about the relationship between development and political maneuvering. If a political system is defined by these two forces, does it imply that successful governance must always integrate both components? Or can a country achieve success in one area without the other? Is there ever a point where politics should be entirely separated from developmental goals to avoid exploitation for political gain?
VMle van minh
This quote by Kalam seems to highlight that politics cannot be separated from development, yet I wonder: how do political agendas impact the actual implementation of development strategies? Can political systems be truly effective if they are constantly bogged down by power struggles? Does this equation suggest that good governance should always focus on balancing both development and political agendas, or should one take precedence for the greater good?
NDNguyen Duong
Kalam’s quote suggests that political systems are defined by both development and political strategies, which feels accurate but also limiting. Can a society truly progress if one aspect of politics is prioritized over the other? What happens when development goals are compromised for political reasons, or vice versa? Is there a balance to be struck between these two elements, or should one dominate the political landscape?
HDHoan Dang
A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s definition of politics offers an interesting view by combining development and political elements. It makes me wonder, though, whether this definition oversimplifies the complexities of political systems. Does ‘political politics’ refer to traditional power struggles, or is it about policy-making and governance? Is it possible to have development without political influence, or does every developmental goal inherently require political maneuvering?