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+--- Thread: Article When does being ‘apolitical’ become a political act? (/thread-21497.html)
When does being ‘apolitical’ become a political act? - C C - Oct 5, 2026
https://theconversation.com/when-does-being-apolitical-become-a-political-act-an-ethicist-on-the-ed-sheeran-saga-292217
EXCERPTS: Politics isn’t limited to government. In a more general sense, it refers to the relationships of power in society and between members of society, and efforts to change them. [...] Being apolitical is not the same as being “neutral” on political issues, especially in cases where significant injustice is taking place.
Some argue attempts at neutrality on such issues entrench, or at least permit, the injustice. [...] The Red Cross argues its political neutrality allows it to assist more people affected by conflict. On the other hand, mercenary soldiers – who are politically neutral and fight purely for wages – are generally seen as much less ethical. Many current conflicts in the world are fought by such soldiers.
[...] Is it unethical to be apolitical? Not always. Being apolitical is defensible based on some philosophical perspectives, but context matters... (MORE - missing details)
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The problem with evaluating or judging apolitical, though, is that by necessity that is going to be conducted according to the criterion and preferences of a school of thought that is accordingly itself is not "a-".