Politics and Policy Gladstone’s Critique of the Bush Presidency (March 6, 2006) Check out this article in the L.A. Times, which uses Gladstone’s criticism of Disraeli’s policies in 1848 Britain to form an outline for the Democratic campaign against Bush and his party: A 19th Century Critique of a 21st Century President A summary of Gladstone’s Principles: 1. Good Government Begins at Home – Fiscal Responsibility. "The first thing," he argued, "is to foster the strength of the empire by just legislation and economy at home." 2. Foreign Policy Goals - "to preserve to the nations of the world … the blessings of peace". 3. Effectiveness – “"Even when you do a good thing," Gladstone observed, "you may do it in so bad a way that you may entirely spoil the beneficial effect." 4. Avoid Unnecessary Entanglements. "You may boast about them," he went on, "you may brag about them…. But you are increasing your engagements without increasing your strength; and if you increase engagements without increasing strength, you diminish strength, you abolish strength." 5. Acknowledge the Equal Rights of All Nations. I could go on, but it would be better if you read the article yourself. Posted by RHP6033        Copyright 2006-2007 - Brookridge Associates Inc. All rights reserved.