In the decades leading up to the First World War, Germany had given birth to an ugly baby that they named realpolitik. It basically meant that the answer to everything in politics was "just do it." Germany, and anyone who adopted this baby philosophy, would stop talking about grand ideals or flowery sentiments, and just set a goal to be accomplished through whatever means necessary. Governments would do what was most practical, rather than what was morally right. So yeah, some people might get hurt along the way, but success wouldn't be measured in the emotions of weak humans, it would be shown in the triumphs of the nation.
Questions About Pragmatism
- Why do you think Americans were shocked by early examples of realpolitik while Germans were more comfortable with the idea?
- Should a government ever be allowed to set ethics aside to meet their goals? What should prevent or allow this to happen?
- Beyond the Zimmermann note, what examples of realpolitik can be seen in modern history, or in politics today?
Chew on This
The Zimmermann Telegram is a dangerous example of realpolitik usurping the role of diplomacy in international affairs and risking the lives of innocent people.
The Zimmermann Telegram was a practical solution to a wartime issue and should not be taken personally by the people or countries involved.