In the old days people never bothered about what others did, so long as they were free to do what they liked themselves. Today, one cannot sneeze without being corrected, let alone enjoy oneself. That's what politics have done to our society
Interpretation
The quote reflects on how people's freedoms to enjoy life have been curtailed by today's scrutiny and political correctness.
Tunku Abdul Rahman's quote highlights a shift in societal attitudes from a time when individuals were unconcerned with the actions of others, as long as they themselves had the freedom to live as they wished. In contrast, he observes that contemporary social dynamics have resulted in an environment where every action is subject to judgment and correction, leading to a reduction in genuine enjoyment and personal freedom due to the pervasive influence of politics.
In practice
During a speech about the importance of free expression, one might use this quote to emphasize the value of personal freedom.
All talk on Islamic States is just an empty dream. No man in his right sense would accept a nation which bases its political administration on religion, and in a country like Malaysia with its multiracial and multireligious people, there is no room for an Islamic State.
We are all Malaysians. This is the bond that unites us. Let us always remember that unity is our fundamental strength as a people and as a nation.
We usually forget that apart from making a living on this earth, human beings live in societies and these societies have cultures. It is only through having cultures that mankind on this earth has an ordered and meaningful life. Music and drama are two of the many important manifestation of a culture. They are important because they represent the expressions emanating from the power of human artistic creativity
The strongest democracies flourish from frequent and lively debate, but they endure when people of every background and belief find a way to set aside smaller differences in service of a greater purpose.
I seldom think of politics more than eighteen hours a day.
Like the effect of advertising upon the customer, the methods of political propaganda tend to increase the feeling of insignificance of the individual voter.
Our 'neoconservatives' are neither new nor conservative, but old as Bablyon and evil as Hell.
I considered 4 of these bills [of the revised code of Virginia] as forming a system by which every fibre would be eradicated of antient or future aristocracy; and a foundation laid for a government truly republican.
Where I think historians can help preserve and actually restore democracy is to remind us of how we got it.
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