"Politics have no relation to morals"

The core idea here is that politics and morals are often seen as separate realms. Essentially, this means that the actions and decisions in the political sphere aren't necessarily guided by moral principles. Politicians might make choices based on strategy, power, or practical considerations, rather than what's ethically right or wrong.

Historically, this viewpoint has been around for ages. Niccolò Machiavelli, a political theorist from the Renaissance era, is often associated with this kind of thinking. He believed that leaders sometimes need to do what's effective rather than what's morally correct to maintain power and achieve their goals. This idea probably resonated during times of turbulent political change, where survival often trumped morality.

Let's look at a real-life example to ground this concept. Think about World War II and the decisions made by the Allied leaders. The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States is a stark instance. Dropping atomic bombs on two cities resulted in massive civilian casualties, an action that can't be easily justified on moral grounds. However, from a political and strategic standpoint, it was argued as a necessary move to force Japan's surrender and end the war swiftly. It's a clear case of political decisions being made with a focus on strategy rather than morality.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, recognize that sometimes, in leadership or tough decision-making roles, you might face similar dilemmas. You should be aware that not every decision will align perfectly with your personal morals, but consider the broader consequences. Weigh the potential outcomes and the larger good that might come from a difficult choice.

Imagine you're the CEO of a company that's struggling. You might have to lay off a portion of your workforce to save the company from going under. It’s a gut-wrenching decision because you know it will hurt those employees. But in the grand scheme, it might be the move that keeps the company—and the jobs of the remaining employees—intact. It’s a tough balance between the moral desire to protect everyone and the political (or practical) need to make hard choices for the greater good.

Here's a relatable story: Picture a small town facing a financial crisis. The mayor, who’s well-loved and morally upright, has to decide whether to cut funding for a local community center to balance the budget. This center provides a safe space for kids after school, and closing it would be heart-wrenching. But, without these cuts, essential services like the fire department and police force might face reductions, putting the entire town at risk. The mayor's decision won't feel moral, but politically, it's necessary to ensure the town’s survival and safety.

In the end, navigating these waters means accepting that the worlds of politics and morality don’t always align perfectly. Decisions often come with trade-offs. The key is to stay informed, consider all angles, and be transparent about the rationale behind tough choices. This way, even if the decision isn't purely moral, it can be understood and respected in its context.