In the given quote, David Dellinger is suggesting a balance between personal convictions and practical considerations when choosing who to support in an election. He encourages people to vote for Bernie Sanders with both their hearts and their heads, implying that while they may have deep-seated beliefs or preferences for certain policies, it's also important to consider the likelihood of the candidate winning.
The deeper meaning of this quote lies in the complex nature of democratic participation and decision-making. Dellinger is advocating for a nuanced approach where voters must weigh emotional connections to candidates with rational assessments of their electoral chances. This suggests that supporting someone purely out of passion can sometimes be counterproductive if it means backing a long-shot candidate who has little chance of winning, thereby potentially wasting votes or aiding the victory of an opponent. The quote also highlights the tension between idealism and pragmatism in political engagement, urging individuals to find a middle ground.
David Dellinger was an American peace activist and author known for his involvement in various social justice movements throughout the 20th century. He was particularly active during the civil rights era and played significant roles in anti-war protests and other progressive causes. His background reflects a lifelong commitment to social change, which likely influenced his perspective on political engagement and activism.
