Qualities of a Good Leader

Answer

Qualities of a Good Leader

1. My opinion is that the qualities that have been listed by Socrates with respect to whether a philosopher would make a good ruler for a society is a formidable illustration of the qualities of a good ruler. Socrates provides a reliable blueprint in relation to the qualities of a good ruler. In page 10 of his book, Socrates makes reference to the "highest good" and he notes in this respect that ordinary people would not be fit to lead because they would be self-centered and would not look out for the long-term interests of the whole society. This would, however, not be the case for a philosopher because they would not be looking for power or money, but the highest good of all people (Plato, 2016). A leader leaves a legacy and his decisions do not just affect his current citizens but future generations as well and in this respect, a leader should be selfless.
2. One of the most vital qualities that an American leader would need today is the ability to be versatile. This means that the ruler must have a constant passion for knowledge. Due to factors such as technological advancement, the world is changing everyday and this has meant that the methods of doing things are changing. When the issue of racism is, for instance, looked at from the angle of cultural relativism, is is apparent that whereas during the 18th Century it was acceptable, it is now shunned. An American leader should, therefore, be willing to learn and be keen on offering the kind of leadership that is needed currently. Another important quality that an American leader should have is Integrity. Considering the fact that it is now difficult to hide one's personal life, an American ruler should strive to cultivate a good value system and in this regard, he should lead by example. He or she should essentially be temperate and virtuous.
3. When Plato uses the words “eternal” and “unchangeable” he is essentially making reference to matters whose duration is infinite or everlasting. When reference is made to the definition of the word “eternal” for instance, it is apparent that the word is used to make reference to things that continue without any interruption (unchangeable); and to things that have no beginning or end (Dictionary, 2002). On the other hand, when Plato uses the term “region of many” and “variable” he is referring to he is referring to things that are unstable as they undergo constant variations. In light of the foregoing, Plato indicates that Philosophers are individuals who are constantly keen on grasping the “eternal” and the “unchangeable” and in line with this, those who do not endeavor to the same are not philosophers. In light of this, philosophers are seen as being best fit to make the best rulers because they have a grasp of “eternal” and “unchangeable” conceptualizations.
4. Plato uses the concepts illustrated above to make reference to the fact that philosophers are the ones who are best fit to rule states. It is noted that since philosophers concern themselves with having an understanding of “eternal” things, the depth of wisdom and intelligence they gain in this endeavor prevents them from being self-centered and using their position to gain power and money (Plato, 2016). This allows them to be completely committed to their calling. Similarly, since they do not fear death, they understand that they are only present in their position for a season and they are courageous enough to make decisions that will beneficial to other members of the society without exhibiting any fear. Based on the above illustration, Plato believes that philosophers are best fit to take up the task of ruling a people.