Meaning: This quote by Gilbert Highet succinctly captures the essence of politics as the art of persuasion and compromise in order to achieve certain ends. Gilbert Highet was a Scottish-American classicist, writer, and literary historian, known for his insights into human nature and society. In this quote, he presents a somewhat cynical view of politics, highlighting the role of persuasion, public support, and endurance in the pursuit of political objectives.

Politics, as an integral part of human society, is essentially the process of influencing and shaping public opinion and decision-making. It involves various tactics and strategies aimed at convincing people to vote for particular candidates, support specific policies, and tolerate certain hardships in anticipation of future benefits. Highet's characterization of politics as persuading the public to vote for this and support that encapsulates the fundamental nature of political discourse and the mechanisms by which power is wielded and maintained.

The act of persuading the public is at the core of political activity. Politicians and their supporters employ a range of persuasive techniques, including rhetoric, advertising, and public relations, to sway public opinion in their favor. This often involves crafting compelling narratives, appealing to emotions, and presenting persuasive arguments to win people over to their cause. The ability to effectively persuade and mobilize public support is crucial for political success, as it directly influences election outcomes and policy decisions.

Furthermore, politics necessitates the endurance of various challenges and compromises in pursuit of desired outcomes. Highet's reference to enduring these for the promise of those underscores the inherent trade-offs and sacrifices involved in political processes. Individuals and groups may need to endure hardships, make concessions, and navigate complex power dynamics in order to achieve their long-term goals. This endurance can take the form of enduring economic hardships, enduring political gridlock, or enduring societal tensions, among other challenges.

The promise of those represents the aspirational aspect of politics, where politicians and leaders offer a vision of a better future or the prospect of positive change to motivate and mobilize the public. Political promises often serve as a catalyst for action, inspiring people to support particular candidates or policies in the hope of realizing the envisioned benefits. However, Highet's use of the word "promise" also alludes to the potential for unfulfilled expectations and the inherent uncertainty that accompanies political commitments.

In essence, Highet's quote sheds light on the complex interplay of persuasion, public support, and endurance within the realm of politics. It underscores the multifaceted nature of political engagement and the often intricate dynamics at play in the pursuit of political objectives. Moreover, the quote invites reflection on the ethical dimensions of political persuasion and the responsibility of political actors to uphold the trust and expectations of the public.

In conclusion, Gilbert Highet's quote encapsulates the essence of politics as a process of persuasion, public support, and endurance for the promise of future outcomes. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of political engagement and the challenges inherent in navigating the complexities of public opinion and decision-making. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics at the heart of political discourse and the enduring impact of political actions on society as a whole.