This quote by Napoleon Bonaparte suggests that the realm of politics is often riddled with irrationality and absurdity. It implies that participating in public business or politics often requires one to navigate through a sea of absurdities, which can be both baffling and frustrating. The absurdity here could refer to the illogical decisions, the red tape, the bureaucratic inefficiencies, or the often contradictory nature of political discourse.
The quote also suggests a sense of irony. It is absurd to enter into public business, yet it is a necessity for the functioning of society. This paradox is a reflection of the complex and often contradictory nature of politics. Despite its absurdities, politics is an essential part of our social fabric. It is the mechanism through which we make collective decisions, resolve conflicts, and organize our societies.
Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see that politics, both local and global, is often filled with absurdities. For instance, politicians often make promises that they cannot keep, policies are often implemented without considering their long-term implications, and political discourse often devolves into personal attacks rather than substantive debates. Despite these absurdities, we cannot escape the importance of politics in shaping our societies and our lives.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and discernment. Just as we must navigate through the absurdities of politics, we must also navigate through the absurdities of life. We must learn to distinguish between what is rational and what is absurd, what is important and what is trivial, and what is truth and what is falsehood. This ability to discern is a key aspect of personal growth and development.