The king! I thought he was philosopher enough to allow that there was no murder in politics. In politics, my dear fellow, you know, as well as I do, there are no men, but ideas - no feelings, but interests; in politics we do not kill a man, we only remove an obstacle, that is all.
In Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo," the character reflects on the nature of politics, suggesting that actions taken in this realm are driven more by ideas and interests than by personal emotions. He expresses the belief that political maneuvers do not equate to murder, but rather the removal of obstacles that hinder progress or goals. This perspective positions politics as a battleground for competing interests, where individual lives are often viewed as secondary to larger aspirations.
The quote emphasizes a philosophical viewpoint that separates political actions from moral implications. By claiming that politics is devoid of personal feelings, the character reveals a cold, utilitarian approach to power and governance. This leads to a deeper understanding of the motivations behind political decisions, framing them as strategic moves rather than personal vendettas, highlighting the often ruthless logic that governs political landscapes.