How To Be A Leader | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers
Jan 28, 2024
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Plutarch, a renowned biographer and essayist, delves into the essence of leadership by analyzing the traits of great historical figures. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing community needs over personal ambition. The discussion explores the philosophical foundations of virtuous governance, contrasting it with tyranny. Personal anecdotes highlight the moral responsibilities that accompany power, while Plutarch's insights encourage leaders to embody justice and integrity as they navigate the complexities of their roles.
Educated leaders prioritize the welfare of their constituents and develop reason through philosophy.
True leaders prioritize the safety of their constituents and embody reason and justice to foster virtue within their cities.
Deep dives
Educated leaders prioritize the welfare of their constituents over their own power
Plutarch argues that educated leaders prioritize the welfare of their constituents even at the expense of their own power or safety. By exposing themselves to philosophy, particularly moral philosophy, leaders develop reason, which helps them control their emotions and impulses. Leaders governed by reason are able to govern their cities benevolently. In contrast, uneducated leaders are driven by greed, paranoia, and false grandeur.
Leaders who govern with reason exhibit an example of virtue
Plutarch emphasizes that leaders who are governed by reason become virtuous examples to their citizens. These leaders assimilate themselves to the virtue and moral perfection represented by the philosophical concept of God. Plutarch highlights that good political leadership does not solely depend on specific policies, but on the moral development of the leaders themselves.
Leaders must be more afraid of inflicting harm than suffering it
Plutarch argues that true leaders should be more concerned about the welfare of their constituents than their own safety. Leaders who fear for those they govern remain vigilant and protect their constituents from harm. Plutarch contrasts this with tyrants who fear and oppress their subjects. He asserts that leaders must embody reason and justice, serving as benevolent protectors and helping to foster virtue within their cities.
As one of history’s most important biographers and essayists, Plutarch studied deeply the traits of great Greek and Roman leaders to identify just what it is that made them great. In today’s audiobook reading, Ryan shares an excerpt from How to Be a Leader: An Ancient Guide to Wise Leadership, in which Plutarch clearly and succinctly lays out his thoughts on the subject, as well as his advice to anyone striving to become a leader. This book is part of the fantastic Princeton University Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers series, which you can find at The Painted Porch.