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The Daily Stoic

How To Be A Leader | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers

Jan 28, 2024
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.
20:29

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Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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