"This one is a choice between 'bad' and 'worse'"

"Jubal, are you telling me that I ought not to criticize the administration? When they're wrong? When I know they're wrong?"

"Nope. Gadflies such as yourself are utterly necessary. Nor am I opposed to 'turning the rascals out' -- it's usually the soundest rule of politics. But it's well to take a look at what new rascals are you going to get before you jump at any chance to turn your present rascals out. Democracy is a poor system of government at best; the only thing that can honestly be said in its favor is that it is about eight times as good as any other method the human race has ever tried. Democracy's worst fault is that its leaders are likely to reflect the faults and virtues of their constituents -- a depressingly low level, but what else can you expect? So take a look at Douglas and ponder that, in his ignorance, stupidity, and self-seeking, he much resembles his fellow Americans, including you and me... and that in fact he is a notch or two above the average. Then take a look at the man who will replace him if his government topples."

"There's precious little choice."

"There's always choice! This one is a choice betwen 'bad' and 'worse' -- which is a difference much more poignant between 'good' and 'better'."

Robert A. Heinlein: Stranger in a Strange Land (Angyali üdvözlet), 1961