What Does Negative Campaigning Really Mean?

So there is this guy. Made millions with his craft. Has the adulation of millions of young females and the admiration of men around the world. Respected by critics for his vocals, personality and the whole package.. even though its only rock 'n roll.

Now Bono has decided to engage world leaders to bring some relief to the poorest nations. He has studied the problem and worked out the details. He won even more serious minded people as his fans. He didn't need to add to his fan list or want money. He thought he was competent and could make a difference. And so he did it.

Now suppose Bono realizes that he can do even more good if somehow he had direct access to the resources that the great nations accumulate on account of tax collection. He thinks he can make better use of people's money and intentions. He has a plan, has the greatest of intentions and people kinda trust him. So how should he campaign for his election to public office?

It is hard to imagine Bono pandering for votes. Like kaka, he must have this aversion to ask anyone of respect or votes or friendship. It was hard enough to sit down with the likes of Bush et al.. but he did it hopefully, because he realized these leaders did not own the resources and people who have paid taxes probably do want to help the poorest nations and be good. But this campaigning business is hard. So the most likeliest scenario might be that he would go around touring, just like he used to concert tour, to introduce himself to the folks. Do the media. With some hesitance, he might mention that he has a record of serving the people of the world. That he demonstrates a sensitivity to people's emotions through his lyrics. That he managed a band and its business. But what he won't do is, rag on his opponents. He would be above the fray. Not because he is vulnerable himself but because he is just too cool to attack other candidates. He has his credentials and if the voters don't like him then he would just as well go back to rock 'n roll.

Now the question is who is the most un-Bono like characters in the market today. Candidates who say, 'if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!' People whose fortunes are mixed in with them being in power. The professional politicians who have such an ambigious record of achievement that they HAVE to rely on negative campaigning.

So to answer the question what does negative campaigning mean? It doesn't measure tenacity or taking the punch. It proves Machivalean shrewdness. It proves un-Bono like altruism. It means power hunger and no sense of purpose outside the corridors of power.