The Dark Side of Politics: Understanding Its Negative Effects

Politics, the art of governance, can often carry with it a dark underbelly marked by corruption, tyranny, and suffering.

The Negative Effects of Politicians and Politics

Pundits and philosophers throughout history have shed light on the often paradoxical and potentially harmful nature of political power. For instance, George Washington's famous quote 'Government is not reason; it is not eloquence—it is force. Like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action.' eloquently captures the potential for political authority to be both necessary and immensely dangerous.

Corruption and Tyranny

H.L. Mencken succinctly points out that the urge to save humanity is often nothing more than a facade for the desire to exert control. In his words, 'The urge to save humanity is almost always only a false-face for the urge to rule it. Power is what all messiahs really seek: not the chance to serve.' This sentiment is echoed by other scholars, such as the noted American political economist, Adam Smith, who contended that politics should primarily focus on enabling the natural course of wealth creation and society's progress.

Adam Smith's Perspective

As Adam Smith, author of the seminal work The Wealth of Nations (1776), wisely noted, 'Little else is requisite to carry a state to the highest degree of opulence from the lowest barbarism but peace, easy taxes, and a tolerable administration of justice. All the rest are brought about by the natural course of things. All governments which thwart this natural course, which force things into another channel, or which endeavor to arrest the progress of society at a particular point, are unnatural and to support themselves are obliged to be oppressive and tyrannical.'

The RACI Principle and Accountability in Governance

One of the recurring themes in the discussion of negative political effects is the lack of accountability and clear roles within the governmental system. The RACI matrix, a simple yet effective tool used in management to ensure clarity of responsibilities, accountabilities, consultation, and communication, can be a powerful antidote to these negative effects.

For example, when a structural engineer commits a grave error, leading to the collapse of a bridge, the consequences (such as prison) are immediate and well-defined. However, the same level of accountability and consequences is often absent or diluted in the political arena. How many politicians have been re-elected or even clear-headed post-poll rioting, despite causing systemic damage and suffering for society?

The crux is not merely in defining roles but in effectively implementing and enforcing this framework. Without a well-defined RACI matrix in place, politics can indeed resemble a palpable circus. A circus, however, is expected to entertain; a government is not. Thus, the proper structuring and enforcement of RACI principles are critical to ensuring that political authority serves the public good.

Conclusion

The power and responsibility that come with governance should not be left to the whims of individuals; they should be subject to strict structures and principles that ensure accountability and ethical governance. By recognizing these principles and implementing tools like RACI, societies can better navigate the complex and often perilous world of politics.

Keywords: negative effects of politics, political corruption, government power