Word: paradox
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This situation cannot change until the Mexican economy substantially improves. The man who must make that happen is a paradox: a politician who has never before held elective office. Virtually all of Miguel de la Madrid's adult life has been spent within the Mexican bureaucracy, usually in financial or planning positions. He is a lawyer-technocrat who is known as a pragmatic and quiet but firm negotiator rather than an inspired political leader for difficult times. De la Madrid's reputation is based on his mastery of the details of economic planning, his simplicity of style...
...bishops also had to face the terrible paradox of deterrence: it is based on fear and therefore cannot work if one side or the other can be absolutely certain that nuclear weapons will never be used. This point was advanced by William V. O'Brien, a political scientist at Georgetown University, who noted in the Washington Quarterly that
...Boxing is a most vicious business," said Mack Lewis, a Baltimore trainer. "Mr. Mack" is one of the least vicious men in boxing. So many fight people are gentle. That's part of the paradox. "It's vicious," he repeated, "but I just happen to be a person who likes boxing. I can't explain it. No, I don't mind talking about Ernie, because I never for a moment forget Ernie anyway...
Ronald Reagan emerges from the election with his ideas somewhat battered but his leadership oddly intact. He is entering one of those times of presidential paradox when the very traits that took him to the top threaten his command...
...curious paradox, race actually has been an issue in the California governor's campaign. Last month, a Black leader triumphantly shouted. "We will elect a governor for this state who happens to be Black!" He expressed the national importance of the contest, which was obvious as early as a year ago. Bradley long ago mastered the delicate art of reassuring white voters of his competence and intentions of fairness. After long years of honing his skill, Californians seem to be saying Bradley is ready for the big time...