Plutarch on How To Be A Leader Part 2

Mar 14, 2021

Jeffrey Beneker, a classics professor at the University of Wisconsin, shares insights from Plutarch on effective leadership. He discusses the importance of serving the community over personal ambition and contrasts historical figures' views on dignity in public service. The art of delegation is highlighted as crucial for empowering others and avoiding centralized power. Beneker also emphasizes how politicians must balance public perception and genuine relationships while maintaining their integrity. These timeless lessons are invaluable for today’s leaders.

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ADVICE

Active Involvement

Leaders should be involved in all aspects of their organization, demonstrating care.
No task is too small if it benefits the common good.

ANECDOTE

Epaminondas' Example

Epaminondas transformed an insignificant office, overseeing dung and water, into a respected position.
This demonstrates that a leader's dedication elevates any role.

ADVICE

Delegation and Power Sharing

Delegate tasks effectively and share power, like a ship's pilot relying on the crew.
Distribute responsibilities to avoid envy and increase efficiency.

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Today’s episode features another excerpt from Jeffrey Beneker’s How To Be A Leader: An Ancient Guide to Wise Leadership. How To Be A Leader is a modern translation and collection of essays about successful leadership from the ancient biographer Plutarch.

Jeff Beneker is a Professor of Classics at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. His primary research interest is in Greco-Roman biography and historiography. In addition to teaching courses in Greek language and literature, he teaches lecture courses on Classical Mythology, Greco-Roman religion, and Greek civilization.

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