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[Psephos]

12. Realpolitik is the problem, not the solution.

I didn't like it when Kissinger was selling it, either.

I appreciate your perspective, but the idea that we should lecture the Chinese is yours, not mine. To lecture is to condescend. To state one's principles in clear language, on behalf of the weak or threatened, however, is to transcend.

Standing up for one's principles requires only a simple, unequivocal statement. I respect a man or woman who makes principled stands when it's not expedient to do so, and consider it a sign of strength and honor.

We should expect no less of our leaders. One can argue we should expect considerably more.