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[megan.elge3941]

An understanding of the past is necessary for solving the problems of the present.

The obstacles that one is presented with in the present may often be overcome by drawing on knowledge aquired through past experiences. Such knowledge, or perhaps even enlightenment, may only be attained with a deep understanding and appreciation of the events of the past. Through the following discussion I will demonstrate the effectiveness of applying solutions to problems of the past, to those which occur in the present.

Understanding implies that one has completed careful evaluation of a specific problem, theory, or event, and is thus able to comprehend its meaning. Therefore, if an individual understands the past, they should possess the ability to interperet history and draw appropriate conclusions. It has been stated that such an understanding is required in order to solve problems which may occur in the present. Meaning, lessons learned through past expereinces are necessary for the formation of solutions.

Although experience and knowledge which have been gained in the past are more often than not applicable to situations faced in the present, there are times during which such an understanding will not suffice. Take for instance a new mother who is awakened in the night by the cries of her infant. Unfortunately, there is little in her past which has prepared her for this obstacle. It may be assumed with relative certainty that she has never felt more responsible for a human life than she does in this moment. However, there is no reason for dismay. In this particular example, an understanding of the past is not required of the mother in order for her to care for hew newborn. There exists a maternal instinct which overrides any doubts or uncertainties, and although not immediate, the mother is eventually able to soothe her crying infant.

An individual may be taught the correct way to perform a given task, or perhaps learn through the example of others. However, making mistakes is crucial to any learning process. Incorrect answers help us to see where we went wrong, and thus enable us to do right. Past experiences ought to be applied to current situations whenever possible, and this is often the case. Obstacles may be overcome with greater effectivness and efficiency through an understnading of the past. Therefore, assuming an appropriate model is available, our history is a vital tool in solving problems of the present.

If faced with a current problem, which happens to be quite similar to a situation conquered in the past, would you not draw on old conclusions? Such an ability to interperet past experiences is vital to the solving of any present problem with ease.



Politicians too often base their decisions on what will please the voters, not on what is best for the country.

In an ideal world, the decions made by politicians would both please voters and benefit the nation which they represent. However, this is often not the case. Through the following discussion I will demonstrate the importance of representing the needs of the people, as well as the nation.

The leaders of political parties are responsible for a number of decisions which will affect their country and fellow citizens. They also must be elected to this position of power and thus, more often than not, will base their decisions on what will please the voters. This is usually executed through the use of polls which will gauge the popularity of any given decision. In this way, a politician is able to remain in a position of power. Although such individuals often begin their political careers with humble and honest intentions, the number of votes they will receive for a given action will start to outweigh what is best for their country.

While decisions are generally based on their popularity and acceptance amongst a nation's citizens, politicians have been known to make unpopular decisions. Such decisions will often be made for the good of the country. An example of this may include a political leader's decision to either initiate, or participate in a war. This decision may be seen as highly undesirable by many, however, such an action could be required in order to maintain the safety of a country and its people. Additionally, those who originally criticised the war may come to see its benefits. Or perhaps this decision will prove to be not only unpopular, but not in the best interest of the nation.

The needs of voters ought to be addressed by those in powerful political positions. Otherwise, a country's citizens will grow increasingly unsatisfied with their government, which may lead to a revolt. This having been said, it is also important to consider what would best serve the nation. More often than not, these two considerations go hand in hand. A nation's citizens as a whole ultimately represent the nation. Therefore, what is best for the people, is usually beneficial to the country. It is when an unpopular decision must be made in order to preserve the integrity of a nation, that a poltician must put his own popularity aside in order to make the right decision. An individual in such a position of power, has the responsibility to represent their country in the best possible way.

It has been illustrated that the needs of the people and what is best for the country are very similar indeed. Thus, a politician will always be required to walk the thin line that separates the consideration of his people and his nation.

[jellywing_2058]

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