These days, there aren’t many people who don’t hate politics.
The state of most world governments is an absolute mess, but people who wear their disdain for not just leaders but the topic of politics in general like a badge of honour are seriously misguided. They don’t realise that the personal is political, and even if they don’t want to talk about them, they’re affected by them. Here are some clueless things you’ll hear people like this say far too often.
1. “Politics doesn’t affect me.”
It’s easy to feel removed from politics, especially if things seem stable in your own life. But politics shapes everything, from the roads you drive on to the safety of your drinking water. Ignoring its impact doesn’t make it disappear; it just means you’re less prepared to advocate for your needs.
2. “Both sides are the same.”
Claiming there’s no difference between political parties or ideologies oversimplifies complex issues. While no group is perfect, dismissing all sides ignores the nuances of policies that can drastically impact people’s lives. This mindset often leads to apathy, which ultimately benefits those in power.
3. “My vote doesn’t matter.”
It’s a common refrain, but it’s also a misconception. Elections are often decided by razor-thin margins, especially in local or state races. Dismissing your vote ignores the collective power of small actions adding up to meaningful change.
4. “I’m not political.”
Everyone benefits from or is impacted by political decisions, whether they realise it or not. Saying you’re “not political” doesn’t remove you from the system; it just means you’re letting other people make decisions for you. Politics influences everything from your taxes to the rights you enjoy daily.
5. “It’s all just noise.”
The news cycle can be overwhelming, but not all political discussions are pointless chatter. Major legislation, policy changes, and leadership decisions directly affect healthcare, education, and countless other areas. Tuning out completely leaves you unaware of changes that could directly impact you.
6. “All politicians are corrupt.”
While corruption exists, painting every politician with the same brush dismisses the efforts of those genuinely working to improve their communities. Thinking this way creates a sense of hopelessness and discourages people from engaging in the system. Cynicism doesn’t hold leaders accountable—active participation does.
7. “I don’t understand politics, so I don’t bother.”
Politics can seem complicated, but that’s not a reason to give up. Taking the time to learn even the basics can help you navigate issues that matter to you. Staying uninformed only makes it easier for other people to shape the system in ways that might not benefit you.
8. “Nothing ever changes anyway.”
This defeatist attitude overlooks the incremental but important progress that often happens through political efforts. Change may not be immediate, but dismissing the entire system overlooks victories that have improved lives, like civil rights advancements or healthcare reforms.
9. “It’s all rigged.”
While there are valid concerns about inequality in political systems, claiming everything is rigged oversimplifies the issue. Believing that nothing can be done often leads to disengagement, which only reinforces the status quo. Recognising flaws while still participating is how systems are improved.
10. “I don’t have time for politics.”
Life is busy, but politics shapes the world you navigate every day. From work policies to public services, it impacts the time you think you don’t have. Even small efforts, like voting or staying informed, can make a difference without requiring hours of commitment.
11. “It’s not my problem.”
If a political issue doesn’t affect you directly, it’s tempting to ignore it. But policies that harm people often ripple out and eventually touch everyone. Caring about broader issues creates a more equitable and just society for everyone involved.
12. “Politicians only care about themselves.”
Source: Unsplash While some leaders act in self-interest, many work tirelessly to represent their constituents. Dismissing them all as self-serving ignores the efforts of those fighting for meaningful change. Supporting and electing better representatives requires participation, not resignation.
13. “I just focus on local issues.”
Source: Unsplash While paying attention to local politics is great, national and global issues often trickle down and affect local communities. Being informed at multiple levels ensures you understand the bigger picture. Ignoring the broader context leaves you vulnerable to changes that could impact your area.
14. “Debates are just shouting matches.”
Source: Unsplash Some debates may seem performative, but at their core, they’re about weighing different ideas and policies. Engaging in thoughtful political discussions helps you understand where you stand and why. Dismissing debates entirely overlooks their role in shaping critical decisions.
15. “Protesting doesn’t do anything.”
Source: Unsplash Protests have historically driven significant changes, from voting rights to labour laws. They amplify voices and bring attention to overlooked issues. Writing them off as ineffective disregards their role in holding power to account and mobilising change.
16. “I’ll worry about it later.”
Waiting for a “better time” to engage often means never engaging at all. Political decisions happen with or without your input, and delaying your involvement can lead to outcomes you might regret. The best time to care is now, while you still have the opportunity to influence decisions that matter.
