That was one of the troubles with the Istiqlal, with all politics: you talked about people as though they were not really people, as though they were only things, numbers, animals, perhaps, but not really people.
The quote highlights a significant issue within political discourse, particularly related to the Istiqlal party. It suggests that politicians often reduce individuals to mere statistics or objects, stripping away their humanity and complexity. This dehumanization can lead to a disconnect between leaders and the people they represent, emphasizing a troubling aspect of political engagement.
The author, Paul Bowles, expresses concern that such a perspective can harm society, as it fosters an environment where people's needs and experiences are overlooked. By viewing individuals as numbers or animals, politicians may fail to address the genuine challenges faced by communities, ultimately hindering meaningful progress and understanding in governance.
