A great quote from President John Kennedy...
= new reply since forum marked as read
"As signers of the UN charter, we shall always be prepared to discuss international problems with any and all nations that are willing to talk--and listen--with reason. If they have proposals--not demands--we shall hear them. If they seek genuine understanding--not concessions of our rights--we shall meet with them. We have previously indicated our readiness to remove any actual irritants in West Berlin, but the freedom of that city is not negotiable. We cannot negotiate with those who say "What's mine is mine, and what's yours is negotiable." But we are willing to consider any arrangement or treaty in Germany consistant with the maintenance of peace and freedom, and with the legitimate security interests of all nations."
The problem is it's probably accurate to say that in I/P both sides would say that it's the other person who's at fault. And many on each side would be astonished to hear the other side say it because, well, they simply can't imagine there's more than one side to the issue, or at least more than one side that should be mentioned in polite company.
Then again, I'm sure that the Tea Party would love that quote, too, as people discuss raising taxes or gun control. After all, what their particular "Other" isn't up for negotation, but the 1% (or "patriots'"
wealth and income is, along with their guns.
It sounds good but is at least a two-edged sword. Ponder it and the sword will probably grow additional edges.
On the good side, at least the quote is close even if really out of context. Better than most such quotes.
