
Ross B. answered 08/27/23
Supportive Results Oriented Tutor with the Human Touch
Our word politics is derived from the ancient Greek "polites" (citizen) and polis (city). Although today politics has an extremely negative connotation, it's original purpose was resolve conflict though discussion and negotiation; a most laudable objective.
When Benjamin Franklin was asked why he consented to create a nation where slavery was "the law of the land", he answered that although it was preferable not to allow slavery, it just wasn't feasible at the time. He went on to explain that it was better to have a nation with slavery then no nation at all, hoping that slavery might disappear at some future time.
Politics in a democracy calls for compromise between the representatives of divergent interest groups. It depends on mutual respect for different opinions and view points, and of course, civility. It is regrettable that many Americans have a poor view of politics, but hopefully in the future we can return to our roots and politics based on honor and mutual respect.