Plato was right

“Justice in the life and conduct of the State is possible only as first it resides in the hearts and souls of the citizens”

Reading about the scandal that hit the NY Times, I wonder how a former Attorney General who fought for justice (famously) on behalf of NY State could fall so fast from his pedestal for a reason I cannot understand, empathize or fathom in the slightest.

Justice and honesty are not merely background apparitions that we somehow relate to; but should instead be principles that are the driving force behind our actions. This is particularly true with respect to those invidividuals who represent many from the perspective and actions of one.

Truth is not a flimsy value, nor a detachable amenity. It is instead a self-evident characteristic, that I would argue, has to be practiced, struggled with and endured. Understanding truth and thereby implementing justice by weighing the "right" and the "wrong" is an essential trait that any of us should continue to aspire to. Whether guided by religion, family tradition, stories or myths, each person has the capacity to reach this threshold and to distinguish from truth and error.

If that individual is then called upon the function, to perform duties on behalf of others, to represent the interest of thousands of people who rely on them and depend on that persons' judgment, then the qualities of that person's character should uphold these principles as their guide.

It is sad when this does not happen, and as reality sets in this is often the case.

Maybe, just maybe, authenticity and honesty is becoming recognizable as something we like, appreciate and crave. There is a sense that our expectations on politics and government is changing. If so, then perhaps this cynical reality of today will change and we will learn by example rather than empty words.