Meaning:
The quote "Politics is when you say you are going to do one thing while intending to do another. Then you do neither what you said nor what you intended." is often attributed to Saddam Hussein, the former President of Iraq. This quote reflects a cynical view of politics and politicians, suggesting that they are dishonest and manipulative. It implies that politicians make promises they have no intention of keeping and ultimately fail to achieve their goals.
Saddam Hussein was a controversial and authoritarian leader who ruled Iraq for over two decades. His regime was characterized by repression, human rights abuses, and aggressive foreign policy. Given this context, it is not surprising that this quote is associated with him, as it aligns with the perception of politicians as untrustworthy and deceitful.
The quote appears to critique the disconnect between political rhetoric and actual actions. It suggests that politicians use misleading language to create an illusion of commitment to certain goals or ideals, while in reality, they have ulterior motives or no intention of following through. This sentiment reflects a widespread skepticism towards political leaders and the political process, where promises are often made during campaigns but not fulfilled once in power.
The quote also highlights the idea of political double-dealing and the failure to achieve stated objectives. It implies that politicians engage in a kind of duplicity, saying one thing to the public while having different private intentions. Furthermore, it suggests that even these private intentions are not acted upon, resulting in a lack of fulfillment of any promises or objectives. This portrayal of political behavior as disingenuous and ineffective contributes to a perception of widespread political corruption and inefficacy.
This quote also underscores the impact of political dishonesty on the public's trust in government and the democratic process. When politicians are seen as insincere and untrustworthy, it can erode the public's faith in the political system and lead to disillusionment and apathy. The perception of politicians as self-serving and deceitful can contribute to a sense of powerlessness among citizens, as they feel their voices and interests are not genuinely represented by those in power.
In conclusion, the quote attributed to Saddam Hussein reflects a critical and cynical view of politics, portraying politicians as deceptive and ineffective. It captures the sentiment of disillusionment with political leaders and the political process, highlighting the gap between political rhetoric and actual actions. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, integrity, and accountability in political leadership, and the need for politicians to genuinely fulfill their promises and commitments to the public.