Politicians and Their Alignment with the “Beautiful and Good”
Spireo begins by observing that politicians are often seen as representatives of the “Beautiful and Good”. A Russian saying cynically suggests that they always stand for the positive and never for the hardships or the negative. Spireo sees this as politicians adapting to current trends and sentiments. When the mood shifts, they simply change their position.
Spireo compares this observation with experiences from socialism, where the ideology always emphasized the Beautiful and Good — for the people, for peace, and for a better life. According to the news, plans were often overachieved, and the enemy forces were held back by the border wall. The will of the people was nearly completely implemented, as shown by election results with over 99% voting for the Block parties.
The Importance of the National Front in Socialism
In socialism, there were various parties, but all pursued the same goal. The so-called National Front was a political structure that fought against everything bad and “not-so-beautiful.” Spireo draws parallels to today’s world, where the demand for unity and conformity on certain issues is also present.
Today, it seems similar to the days of the DDR: Anyone not supporting the Beautiful and Good is perceived as an enemy of society. This was also the case when someone opposed the Party or the National Front — it was quickly interpreted as an attack on peace and the people.
The Hypocrisy Behind the Facade of the “Beautiful and Good”
Spireo calls it hypocrisy to claim that one is always for the Beautiful and Good, because no one can always hold that opinion. In history, such as in the National Socialism era, blame was often assigned to a central figure like the “man with the mustache,” while other people submitted to the regime. Similarly, in the DDR, it wasn’t only Honecker who was responsible. Instead, it was the ordinary people — teachers, policemen, and neighbors — who upheld the system.
Spireo emphasizes that although politicians may embody the Beautiful and Good, it is society that supports this mindset. After the end of socialism, many people suddenly changed their opinions. Those who had once believed in socialism became opponents — a phenomenon known as “Wendehälse.”
Parallels to Today’s World
Today, Spireo recognizes similar patterns: Politicians promote the Beautiful and Good, but often focus more on global issues than on the concerns of their voters. A quote by Mario Adorf illustrates this: “If someone is responsible for everything, they are responsible for nothing.” The Beautiful and Good is used today as a justification for various political measures, such as in energy matters.
Spireo criticizes that people often do not question or even understand these developments, which reflects a certain indifference. Many of today’s events remind Spireo of the DDR, and he calls for close observation of these trends. Step by step, what people once valued is being altered by focusing on the Beautiful and Good.
In conclusion, Spireo notes that honest communication is necessary to recognize and prevent these developments. Without an open dialogue, the narrative of the Beautiful and Good continues, without society truly questioning what lies behind it.