The Politicians and the Plunder
Story Summary
In "The Politicians and the Plunder," a fable story with moral undertones, various political figures negotiate their roles in dividing power and resources, each embodying different facets of corruption and governance. The Decent Respect for Public Opinion seeks to reform prison management, while the Blotted Escutcheon and Soiled Ermine cling to their judicial ties, yet ultimately, the Cohesive Power of Public Plunder reveals that the true spoils have already been claimed by the Depth of Degradation, illustrating the pervasive moral decay in politics. This creative moral story serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power.
Several political entities were dividing the spoils of their recent endeavors.
"I will take the management of the prisons," said a Decent Respect for Public Opinion, "and make a radical change."
"And I," replied the Blotted Escutcheon, "will retain my current general connection with affairs, while my friend here, the Soiled Ermine, will remain in the Judiciary."
The Political Pot chimed in, stating that it would not boil any longer unless replenished from the Filthy Pool.
The Cohesive Power of Public Plunder quietly remarked that the two bosses would, he supposed, naturally become his share.
"No," interjected the Depth of Degradation, "they have already fallen to me."
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The story illustrates how political corruption and self-interest often lead to the exploitation of public resources for personal gain, highlighting the degradation of public trust and integrity in governance.
Historical Context
This story reflects the themes of political corruption and the manipulation of power, reminiscent of the satirical works of political writers like Jonathan Swift and Mark Twain. It draws from the tradition of allegorical storytelling seen in George Orwell's "Animal Farm," where animals represent various societal roles, critiquing the moral decay within political systems. The narrative encapsulates the idea that those in power often prioritize personal gain over the common good, a sentiment echoed throughout history in various cultural contexts, including the decline of democratic institutions and the rise of oligarchies.
Our Editors Opinion
This story highlights the often corrupt and self-serving nature of political entities, emphasizing how those in power may prioritize personal gain over the public good. In modern life, this resonates with the ongoing debates about political transparency and accountability, as seen in scenarios where elected officials abuse their positions for personal enrichment while neglecting the needs of their constituents. For example, a city council member might advocate for community improvements but secretly benefit from contracts awarded to a company they have ties to, illustrating the moral that power can easily become a tool for exploitation rather than service.
You May Also Like
The Monkey and the Nuts
In "The Monkey and the Nuts," a certain city seeks to purchase land for a public deformatory but becomes entangled in greed as officials continually request more funds from the government. Their relentless demands lead to frustration, prompting the government to withdraw support entirely, leaving the officials empty-handed. This timeless moral story serves as an inspirational reminder of the consequences of greed and the limits of generosity, illustrating important lessons from moral stories that resonate across cultures.
The Bull and the Goat
In "The Bull and the Goat," a thought-provoking moral story, a Bull seeking refuge from a Lion is unexpectedly attacked by a He-Goat in a cave. The Bull calmly asserts that his true fear lies with the Lion, not the Goat, illustrating the moral lesson about the evil disposition of those who take advantage of a friend in distress. This meaningful story with moral highlights the importance of recognizing true threats and the nature of malicious behavior.
The Patriot and the Banker
In "The Patriot and the Banker," a former politician, having grown rich from questionable gains, tries to open a bank account but is confronted by an Honest Banker who insists he must repay the money he stole from the government first. Realizing the bank's share of the loss is minimal, the Patriot deposits just a dollar, humorously illustrating the lessons learned from stories about accountability and the often feeble attempts at restitution by those who prioritize wealth over integrity. This funny story with a moral serves as a big moral tale, teaching valuable lessons that can resonate with kids and adults alike.
Related Collections
Other names for this story
Political Spoils, Plundered Promises, The Power of Political Greed, Dividing the Spoils, Corruption's Playground, The Spoils of Governance, Politics and Profit, The Cost of Power
Did You Know?
This story satirically illustrates the corrupt nature of political systems, where power is exchanged and divided among entities that prioritize their own interests over the welfare of the public, reflecting the idea that those in governance often engage in unethical practices for personal gain.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.