Politics without Principle
Gandhi’s Perspective
Gandhi warned against “politics without principle,” meaning political power or action unguided by ethics or truth. In his view, when leaders abandon core principles and ideologies just to gain or retain power, it results in misgovernance and harm to the people. He observed that leaders driven by selfish ambition rather than public service violate fundamental rights and betray the trust of the governed. Gandhi cautioned that this is a great social evil, leading to “the greatest tragedy of politics” – a situation where capturing power matters more than moral governance. True to his philosophy of Satya (truth), Gandhi believed politics must be anchored in truth and ethics.
Stoic Perspective (Justice and Courage)
Stoic philosophy, especially as taught by Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, holds that Justice is a cardinal virtue, guiding one to give each their due and to act for the common good. Marcus Aurelius, himself a ruler, wrote that “whatsoever…I can do ought to be directed to this only: to that which is useful and well suited to society.” In other words, a principled leader serves the common good and upholds justice rather than seeking personal gain. The Stoics also emphasized Wisdom and Courage in leadership: wisdom to discern right from wrong, and courage to uphold what is right even under pressure. Marcus Aurelius was celebrated as a kind of philosopher-king whose decisions were informed not by “lust or jealousy or greed,” but by reason and virtue. Stoic teachings, therefore, directly oppose “politics without principle” – a Stoic statesman must maintain integrity and honor above popularity or power. Epictetus would argue that external power and status are indifferent; only virtue (like integrity) is truly good. To Stoics, ruling without principle is a form of injustice and cowardice, whereas just leadership requires moral courage to stick to principle and honesty.
Latter-day Saint Perspective (Integrity in Government)
LDS doctrine similarly insists that governance be founded on moral principles. Modern revelation teaches that “when the wicked rule the people mourn,” and thus “honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently” to uphold good government. In other words, leaders must be people of integrity and principle, otherwise their governance “cometh of evil”. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints counsels its members to honor truthful, virtuous leadership and to participate in government with honesty and accountability (Article of Faith 12). LDS scripture affirms the importance of principled leadership by commanding: “Let no man break the laws of the land, for he that keepeth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land” (Doctrine & Covenants 58:21). In LDS teachings, civic duty and discipleship are linked – one modern prophet taught that members should be true to gospel principles in public life just as much as in private life. This aligns with Gandhi’s insistence on principle in politics and with Stoic justice: all three perspectives condemn political expediency that tramples ethics. However, LDS teachings add a sacred dimension: integrity in public service is not only socially wise but a divine mandate. Upholding correct principles in government is seen as part of building God’s kingdom on earth, and modern prophets have reiterated that “righteousness exalteth a nation” (Proverbs 14:34). Thus, the LDS view both aligns with Gandhi and Stoicism on valuing principled leadership, and extends it by framing moral governance as a religious obligation to God and fellowmen.
Bibliography for Series
- Aurelius, Marcus. Meditations. Translated by Maxwell Staniforth. London: Penguin Classics, 1964.
- Epictetus. Discourses. Translated by George Long. London: George Bell and Sons, 1890.
- –––. Enchiridion. Translated by George Long. London: George Bell and Sons, 1890.
- Gandhi, Mohandas Karamchand. “Seven Social Sins.” Young India, October 22, 1925.
- The Holy Bible: King James Version. 2013. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. 2013. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Doctrine and Covenants. 2013. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Pearl of Great Price. 2013. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.