I will start this by saying that there may be some spoilers from the Dark Nest series but Troy Denning, so be aware.

While reading this series, and interesting question came to mind. Just what role should Jedi have in government? One example is Raynar Thul, although admitidly, this is a strange and extreme example. His use of the Force banded together all of the Killik nests under one mind, a hive mind. Another example is Emperor Palpatine. He was exerting such a strong will that when he died, all the crews fighting the Alliance became nearly combat ineffective.

One also must consider the role of the Jedi in the galaxy. Jacen Solo has struggled with this. The role of a government is to serve the people. However, the role of a Jedi is to serve the Force. It is my belief that is why the Jedi were so easily destroyed in the PT. They became mired down by the daily squabbles of the galaxy and succumbed to their own bueracracy(sp). It is my belief that the Jedi should have no part of government and must remain seperate altogether. If the will of the Force says they must intervene, then they must becaome involved. Until then, involving themselves in the mindless muck that is daily galaxy politics only weakens them.