CULTURE

Political Culture

In 16th century Poland, there lived a certain gentleman by the name of Jerzy Szoman, who went down in history mainly for one reason: he was, by turns, a Catholic, a Lutheran, a Calvinist and an Arianist. He changed his faith with great ease, steeping himself completely in each. That is, of course - for a certain time!

In France, around the turn of the 19th century, there lived a brilliant politician by the name of Charles Maurice de Talleyrand. Talleyrand was initially a man of the Church, then of the Revolution, then of Bonaparte, then the Bourbons, and finally Louis Philippe, providing no small services to each of his protectors in turn. That is, of course, for a certain time.

Szoman was motivated probably by curiosity, Talleyrand by political interest. The dominant features of both men were inconsistency, raised to the rank of a virtue, and, in spite of this inconsistency, their credibility in every subsequent incarnation.

Apparently, it is only cows that do not change their views. Politicians do. Assuming, of course, that they have any, which is far from sure.

When still a young man, Klemens Metternich, to whom post-Napoleon Europe owed its new order, noticed that, in Italy, it pays to say that it is Italian music which one values most highly; in Germany, that German music is beyond compare. This immediately warms people towards one, which is, after all, the ultimate goal. He also noticed that it is well for a young man to "appeal" to elderly female aristocrats, as he will immediately be talked of in aristocratic circles as someone of refined manners, pleasant conversation and dazzling perspectives. In other words, he will start to make a name for himself: which, again, is the ultimate aim.

With women - attractive and alluring - he advised proceeding judiciously: to pay court to them; treat them with affection; and even abandon them - thus assuring oneself of the same admiration that they constantly arouse in us. Sooner or later, it is certain to pay off. "I cannot imagine a woman who would not yield to Klemens". Thus used to say his … wife, Eleonora née Kaunitz, who remained enchanted by her husband to the very end, as were all of his numerous - and sometimes highly influential - lovers, with Caroline Murat, the natural sister of Bonaparte, being no exception.

Today, many politicians are known primarily for being known. They pop up here and there, are shown on television and in the press. They say something, do something, meet with other, similar people. They try to appeal to all and give offence to none.

Before elections, they "genialise" even more, and follow more closely the prevailing trends. Their social sensibility increases, their sense of brotherly love creeps up. Apparently, they even have some points of view, although when the need arises they firmly disagree with them.

Seemingly then, nothing new under the sun. And yet there is something different: a different format, different charm, different intelligence; and, unfortunately, a different art.

Waldemar Łazuga