We know that it's annoying whenever somebody says, "there are two types of people…" But in American politics, it's more right than wrong to make that claim.
Elected officials usually govern either with ideology or pragmatism. "Ideologues" (the word sometimes has a negative connotation) are the types who stick to their guns. Pragmatists, on the other hand, balance ideology with flexibility. They're willing to consider doing things that make practical sense, even if they appear ugly on the surface. They tend to be more moderate, mixing conservative and liberal values.
Bill Clinton tried hard to cast himself as a pragmatist in his 1996 State of the Union speech by promising to end big government, but at the same time maintain certain programs. His ideological opponents viewed him as a trickster—and worse, a liar. That's why Bob Dole said that the 1996 election was about following up on promises.
Questions About Pragmatism
- After reading the 1996 State of the Union, do you think Bill Clinton was motivated primarily by ideology or pragmatism?
- Politicians (Clinton among them) often get accused of "flip-flopping" when they change their position to fit new events. Do you think this is fair? When should a politician change his or her mind on an issue?
- Although the practical solution to many political issues might involve pragmatism, modern politicians mostly debate ideology when running for office. Why do you think that is?
- Take a look in the mirror. When it comes to making decisions in your own life, or when you vote, are you a pragmatist or an ideologue?
Chew on This
Most historians and journalists consider Bill Clinton a pragmatist, largely because he both governed and ran for office on a balance of conservative and liberal policies and rhetoric.
Bill Clinton depicted his Republican opponents as more extreme and committed to their ideology than him, in an attempt to make himself look like a more sensible and flexible leader.