ClimateJuly 17, 2026

pandering

/ˈpændərɪŋ/

Definition

The act of catering to the desires, prejudices, or interests of a specific group to gain political or financial advantage, often at the expense of one's own principles.

Etymology

Derived from the character 'Pandarus' in Shakespeare's 'Troilus and Cressida,' who acted as a go-between in a romance. By the early 20th century, the term evolved to describe anyone who cynically exploits or accommodates the base desires of others.

In the news

The article uses 'pandering' to suggest that EU leadership is gutting climate regulations to appease corporate interests and foreign political pressure rather than adhering to their original environmental goals.

Faced with US hostility, EU hits the brakes on its climate plans

Read the full article ↗

Gulf Stream Blues

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