Jackson points out that social science have to abstain from value judgements. For him, political excellence is not free from it; he calls social science to step aside so as to widen the margin for politics. According to Jackson, this is the place where decisions have to be taken in society.

From a Christian perspective, the quest for political excellence is described as a moral imperative, as the concept is attached to the ethical foundations of politics: peace, justice and prosperity for the people. Participation of civil society in politics and of politicians in society is highlighted as crucial.