Introduction
In today’s political landscape, we find ourselves in a world that is both relativistic and cynical. The importance of moral congruence has diminished, with formality losing its significance and the very concept of congruence becoming an inconvenience or even meaningless. Congruence, in essence, refers to the alignment between one’s actions and defended principles—a moral obligation. However, this obligation loses its relevance when principles are absent or disregarded.
The Importance of Moral Congruence
Moral congruence is crucial because it establishes expectations for voters regarding a politician’s conduct. When politicians are congruent, voters know what to anticipate from them. However, when politicians lose their congruence, voting shifts from supporting beneficial actions for the future to a matter of personal preferences or spectacle.
The Current State of Political Integrity
Unfortunately, congruent politicians are few and far between. Many in the profession accept that politics is a dirty business, requiring them to get their hands dirty. In the past, there was at least some decency among the corrupt; when scandals emerged, resignation was the minimum expectation. Sadly, decency has also faded among voters, who elect alleged corruptors, pedophiles, and abusers without concern.
- The Yunes Family: Accused of severe misconduct, one member even voted in favor of a reform their supporters wished to halt, betraying their electorate.
- Cuauhtémoc: Facing accusations from his half-sister and numerous women, he lacks the decency to step down and face the accusations without protection.
- María de la Luz Gutiérrez Müller: After advocating for apologies from the Spanish monarchy for past misdeeds, she now seeks Spanish nationality, highlighting her lack of congruence.
- Ex-Minister Zaldívar: Surrounded by scandals, he remains in his position, hindering thorough investigations into the allegations against him.
Senadora Chávez: Despite her illegal use of images in mobile clinics and billboards, she fails to acknowledge her wrongdoing.
The Failure of the Democratic State
A democratic state fails when it does not inspire its politicians to uphold moral congruence and decency. We currently reside in a morally corrupted state. The only way to reverse this decay is for individuals of integrity to stand out and lead the change.
Tribute
I mourn the passing of my beloved teacher, Paulette Dieterlen, from whom I learned invaluable theoretical and university life lessons. My deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.
