"مردان خوب برای بی‌تفاوتی به امور عمومی هزینه می‌پردازند تا توسط مردان بد اداره شوند"

When people who are capable of making positive changes in society choose not to get involved in public matters, the consequence is that those who are less scrupulous often take control. It's pretty straightforward. If good people step back and say, "Oh, politics isn't my thing," or "I don't have time for that," they leave a vacuum. And guess who fills that vacuum? Yep, you guessed it—those who aren't looking out for the common good.

This idea traces back to ancient times. Plato, the Greek philosopher, is often credited with this wisdom, warning that apathy among the good allows the bad to thrive. Imagine ancient Athens, bustling with debates and civic activities. Plato saw firsthand how the quality of leadership directly affected people's lives. When capable and ethical individuals shunned public roles, the power often ended up in the hands of those who were corrupt or self-serving.

Think about the recent history of voter turnout in democratic countries. In some places, less than half the eligible population votes in major elections. A real-life example would be the 2016 United States presidential election. Various analyses suggest that many who were dissatisfied with both major candidates simply didn't vote. Their indifference arguably played a role in the outcome. Now, regardless of one's political stance, it's clear that when a significant portion of the population disengages, the resulting leadership may not reflect the broader society's values.

So, what can you do with this nugget of wisdom? First, don’t underestimate the power of your participation. Whether it's voting, attending town hall meetings, or even just staying informed about local issues, your involvement matters. If you’re someone with a strong moral compass and a sense of civic duty, stepping up, even in small ways, can create a ripple effect. Engage in discussions, volunteer for community projects, or support candidates who align with your values. It’s not always about making big waves; sometimes, consistent small actions can lead to significant changes over time.

Now, picture this: you're at a community meeting. The room is filled mostly with people who have strong opinions, some of which you know aren't in the best interest of the community. You’re hesitant to speak up because, well, public speaking isn’t your thing. But think about it—if you don’t voice your concerns and offer your perspective, who will? And what kind of decisions will be made in your absence? It’s a bit like leaving the playground unattended and wondering why the bullies take over.

A friend of mine, Sarah, had this exact scenario. She lived in a small town where a proposal to build a new park was on the table. Most folks in the meeting were either indifferent or against it, thinking it was a waste of money. Sarah, who valued outdoor spaces for kids and families, decided she couldn't stay silent. She spoke up, emphasizing the long-term benefits and how it would enhance community well-being. Her speech swayed enough people to approve the park. Today, it’s a beloved spot for gatherings and has positively impacted the community.

So, next time you’re thinking about sitting out on an issue, remember the stakes. Your voice is powerful, and your indifference could just be the ticket for someone less scrupulous to steer the ship. Engage, even if it's uncomfortable. Your active participation can help ensure that leadership reflects a wide range of values and, ideally, the common good.