Large Round Influential Objects
D.C. area space policy student note: How can you adapt the current planet definition criteria (under consideration) to also define what a politician is?
Planet determination criteria:
(a) has sufficient mass for its self-gravity to overcome rigid-body forces so that it assumes hydrostatic-equilibrium (nearly round shape), and
(b) is the dominant object in its local population zone, and
(c) is in orbit around the Sun, and possibly
(d) has a “substantial” atmosphere (defined by having weather, complex surface processes, and possibly could possess life).
Adapted to politicians:
(a) has sufficient fundraising and mass to overcome the outside forces of special interests, usually requiring fund-raising meals (leading to a nearly round shape), and
(b) is the dominant object in its local population zone, and
(c) can talk/orbit in circles at a safe distance around the most massive/important topics without being drawn in or pulled apart, and possibly
(d) has a “substantial” atmosphere (defined by generating hot air, complex committee processes, and possibly could possess life).