Modes of Political Action

Name: Modes of Political Action
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work critiques the political landscape, particularly the approach of certain members of the House of Commons who prioritize individual interests over universal principles. It argues that effective political action should appeal to shared human values, such as duty and truth, rather than narrow economic concerns. The author contrasts the methods of traditional politicians with those of demagogues, who successfully mobilize the masses by invoking broad concepts like "Rights of Man" and "Sovereignty of the People." The text emphasizes the danger of abstract ideas when they are disconnected from practical realities, yet acknowledges their power in times of social upheaval. It suggests that while consistent truth and goodness will ultimately prevail, inconsistent good cannot compete with the relentless nature of evil. The author expresses a longing for a leader who can articulate a call to duty that resonates with the public, highlighting a perceived deficiency in contemporary political courage and wisdom. The work reflects on the historical context of political movements, noting that during periods of turmoil, abstract notions often gain traction, leading to significant societal changes. It critiques the failure of politicians to rise above self-interest and engage with the moral imperatives that should guide governance. The text serves as a call for a more principled approach to political action, advocating for a return to foundational values that unite rather than divide.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1830 · Genre: Political Philosophy, Essay, Sociopolitical Commentary · 687 words

First lines

There are many able and patriotic members in the House of Commons -- Sir Robert Inglis, Sir Robert Peel, and some others. But I grieve that they never have the courage or the wisdom -- I know not in which the failure is -- to take their stand upon duty, and to appeal to all men as men, -- to the Good and the True, which exist for _all_, and of which _all_ have an apprehension. They always set to work -- especially, his great eminence considered, Sir Robert Peel -- by addressing themselves to individual interests; the measure will be injurious to the linen-drapers, or to the bricklayers; or this clause will bear hard on bobbin-net or poplins, and so forth. Whereas their adversaries -- the demagogues -- always work on the opposite principle: they always appeal to men as men; and, as you know, the most terrible convulsions in society have been wrought by such phrases as _Rights of Man_, _Sovereignty of the People_, _&c_., which no one understands, which apply to no one in particular, but to all in general.[1]

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Modes of Political Action is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1830 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1830 CE
Language: English
Genres: Political Philosophy, Essay, Sociopolitical Commentary, Rhetoric, Historical Analysis
Length: 687 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Genres

Political Philosophy — The text discusses the nature of political action, duty, and the appeal to universal truths, central themes in political philosophy.
Essay — The work is structured as an essay, presenting arguments and reflections on political action and societal issues.
Sociopolitical Commentary — The text critiques the actions of political figures and the societal implications of their decisions, characteristic of sociopolitical commentary.
Rhetoric — The use of persuasive language and appeals to emotion and reason aligns with the genre of rhetoric.