"Clearly, a political party busily seeking, or maintaining itself in power can discern nothing in these cries except a noise. Its reaction will be different according to whether the noise interferes with or contributes to that of its own propaganda. But it can never be capable of the tender and sensitive attention which is needed to understand its meaning." (Simone Weil, in 'Human Personality', 1942-3)

Especially pertinent given what is being decided tonight.