{Political Virtues, Vices and Gifts}[21st August 1987]

[Redbook4:71-72][19870821:1020h]{Political Virtues, Vices and Gifts}[21st August 1987]

19870821.1020

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On Politicians: the Virtues* and Vices* do apply to the stereotype political party activists, or at least MPs**; as, to some extent, do the Gifts of the Spirit*. The archetypal left-wing MP is motivated by, at worst, Envy of those better-off, and at best, a generalised Loving-care for those worse-off; at best, too, this brings Understanding of men***, and of Man, not often apparent on the other side of the House****.

The archetypal right-wing MP is motivated by, at worst, Avarice for his own (or, conceivably, his class or Country's) material betterment; at best, a Faith {in,} or faithfulness to[,] principles and leadership which sharply distinguishes the Conservative Parliamentary Party from the Labour Parliamentary Party [in the UK]; at best, too, this brings a Righteousness which should be understood as genuine uprightness and moral integrity, not confused with self-righteousness. Naturally in practice characteristics cross the floor of the House****.

*[See [Redbook4:65-66][19870820:1800y]{Willed and Pulled Vices}[20^th August 1987].]

**[Members of Parliament]

***[Despite the lack of a capital initial letter, this is definitely to be understood as including women, as was normal (depending on context) in the times when this was written. Syntax had not caught up with perception. <20160813>]

****[of Commons – the lower chamber (of the United Kingdom legislature), of which MPs are the Members.]

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