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Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers
How to Be a Leader: An Ancient Guide to Wise Leadership
Timeless advice on how to be a successful leader in any field
The ancient biographer and essayist Plutarch thought deeply about the leadership qualities of the eminent Greeks and Romans he profiled in his famous--and massive--Lives, including politicians and generals such as Pericles, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Mark Antony. Luckily for us, Plutarch distilled what he learned about wise leadership in a handful of essays, which are filled with essential lessons for experienced and aspiring leaders in any field today. In How to Be a Leader, Jefferey Beneker presents the most important of these essays in lively new translations accompanied by an enlightening introduction, informative notes, and the original Greek on facing pages.
In "To an Uneducated Leader," "How to Be a Good Leader," and "Should an Old Man Engage in Politics?" Plutarch explains the characteristics of successful leaders, from being guided by reason and exercising self-control to being free from envy and the love of power, illustrating his points with memorable examples drawn from legendary Greco-Roman lives. He also explains how to train for leadership, persuade and deal with colleagues, manage one's career, and much more.
Writing at the height of the Roman Empire, Plutarch suggested that people should pursue positions of leadership only if they are motivated by "judgment and reason"--not "rashly inspired by the vain pursuit of glory, a sense of rivalry, or a lack of other meaningful activities." His wise counsel remains as relevant as ever.
The ancient biographer and essayist Plutarch thought deeply about the leadership qualities of the eminent Greeks and Romans he profiled in his famous--and massive--Lives, including politicians and generals such as Pericles, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Mark Antony. Luckily for us, Plutarch distilled what he learned about wise leadership in a handful of essays, which are filled with essential lessons for experienced and aspiring leaders in any field today. In How to Be a Leader, Jefferey Beneker presents the most important of these essays in lively new translations accompanied by an enlightening introduction, informative notes, and the original Greek on facing pages.
In "To an Uneducated Leader," "How to Be a Good Leader," and "Should an Old Man Engage in Politics?" Plutarch explains the characteristics of successful leaders, from being guided by reason and exercising self-control to being free from envy and the love of power, illustrating his points with memorable examples drawn from legendary Greco-Roman lives. He also explains how to train for leadership, persuade and deal with colleagues, manage one's career, and much more.
Writing at the height of the Roman Empire, Plutarch suggested that people should pursue positions of leadership only if they are motivated by "judgment and reason"--not "rashly inspired by the vain pursuit of glory, a sense of rivalry, or a lack of other meaningful activities." His wise counsel remains as relevant as ever.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published November 5, 2019
163 people are currently reading
2140 people want to read
About the author
Plutarch
4,288 books931 followersPlutarch (later named, upon becoming a Roman citizen, Lucius Mestrius Plutarchus; AD 46–AD 120) was a Greek historian, biographer, and essayist, known primarily for his Parallel Lives and Moralia. He is classified as a Middle Platonist. Plutarch's surviving works were written in Greek, but intended for both Greek and Roman readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 8, 2022
As the second book I've purchased in Princeton's ANCIENT WISDOM FOR MODERN READERS series, I approached 'How to Be a Leader: An Ancient Guide to Wise Leadership' with high expectations. I gave its predecessor, 'How to Think about War: An Ancient Guide to Foreign Policy' by Thucydides, five stars and praised the book as "easily accessible to any reader, be they students of history, politics, philosophy, Ancient Greek (the book is bilingual), or current events." After using 'How to Be a Leader' in class across twenty periods with JROTC cadets (9th-12th grade), I am delighted to report that 'How to Be a Leader' delivered on its promise. This is another five-star book from a fantastic series that is quickly becoming my go-to gift for friends and colleagues.
'How to Be a Leader: An Ancient Guide to Wise Leadership' offers some of the most timeless advice you'll ever read on leadership, respect, organization, the rule of law, and even aging. It was a surprisingly sobering read for students so shortly after the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, but we approached the subject head-on with Plutarch as our guide. We examined his writing alongside passages from great leaders from Alexander the Great to Admiral James Stockdale, tested Plutarch's theories against numerous U.S. presidents, and even covered the destructive nature of racism, sexism, and ageism both in our history and the world today. The result was a delight for our students and even our battalion's commanding officer, a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, who requested that we offer the same course on Plutarch year-round for his cadets. I credit this book and its editor, Dr. Jeffrey Beneker of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, for its excellent layout and succinct descriptions before each chapter, which formed the basis for our lesson plans. I am also delighted to report that students who had never studied philosophy or were English language learners quickly grasped Dr. Beneker's translation of Plutarch's writings.
Five stars. Most highly recommended. A captivating lesson on leadership when it is sorely needed.
'How to Be a Leader: An Ancient Guide to Wise Leadership' offers some of the most timeless advice you'll ever read on leadership, respect, organization, the rule of law, and even aging. It was a surprisingly sobering read for students so shortly after the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, but we approached the subject head-on with Plutarch as our guide. We examined his writing alongside passages from great leaders from Alexander the Great to Admiral James Stockdale, tested Plutarch's theories against numerous U.S. presidents, and even covered the destructive nature of racism, sexism, and ageism both in our history and the world today. The result was a delight for our students and even our battalion's commanding officer, a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, who requested that we offer the same course on Plutarch year-round for his cadets. I credit this book and its editor, Dr. Jeffrey Beneker of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, for its excellent layout and succinct descriptions before each chapter, which formed the basis for our lesson plans. I am also delighted to report that students who had never studied philosophy or were English language learners quickly grasped Dr. Beneker's translation of Plutarch's writings.
Five stars. Most highly recommended. A captivating lesson on leadership when it is sorely needed.
September 26, 2024
More philosophy of leadership or perspective on leadership than step-by-step instructions, and for that reason I appreciated it. Simple, clear, applicable in multiple fields of leadership.
September 21, 2019
Well, I can think of at least 1 leader in 2019 who could certainly benefit from reading this... It may be a cliche to call this "timeless" wisdom but the world would certainly be better off if our leaders came from a background of studying this kind of thought.
December 29, 2022
This book contains essays from Plutarch's Moralia, particularly those that focus on the kind of wise, idealized leadership that always prioritizes the good of the state before one's political primacy. It includes three texts: To An Uneducated Leader (Ad Principem Ineruditum), How To Be A Good Leader (Praecepta Gerendae Reipublicae), and Should An Old Man Engage in Politics? (An Seni Respublica Gerenda Sit). The Praecepta here is only a compilation of the sections of the source that the translator/editor deemed the most relevant and applicable to the book's theme.
Each essay has a short introduction that shares some helpful insights, providing its gist so that reader has an idea as to what to expect from it. The original Greek texts are also provided, which is par for the course for Princeton's Ancient Wisdom series.
I particularly appreciate the helpful Notes and Glossary which, aside from providing the meaning of oft-used Greek and Roman political terms, also includes brief synopses on the lives of the various historical figures covered in the book. The preponderance of allusions to diverse historical personages, while daunting to anyone just dipping his toes into the world of the ancients, is not really that surprising though. Aside from the Moralia, Plutarch is also known for his Parallel Lives, a biographical anthology that compares and contrasts illustrious and notorious figures in Greek and Roman history.
I highly value the lessons the book teaches, though in thinking of the various vainglorious and venal vampires that have perpetuated themselves in power in our debased Age of Clay, one may be forgiven if they seem a tad too idealistic. There is still a core of pragmatism in them though, such as when the author enjoined leaders to enshrine Reason, acquired through a life of virtue and philosophical pursuit, as their main guide in the formulation and execution of policies that always have the common good at their very heart. This is because the shameless, emotionally-driven pursuit of status and power ultimately loosens one's very hold on them, while Reason bereft of base passions gives one a surer eye and a steadier hand with which to steer the Ship of State. One must master oneself completely before he can positively influence his subjects into bringing their best selves to the fore. Benevolence, self-sacrifice, righteousness - who can't help but be inspired by these?
I like how Plutarch never wavers in advising rulers to always pursue the Platonic ideals of the good, the beautiful, and the true, even if I can't help but hear the sad strains of realpolitik counterpointing his siren song of sterling virtue and justice. I admire how he anticipated this reticence however, reproaching Alexander the Great's envy of Diogenes by stating that his very puissance and station should have bolstered his pursuit of Reason instead of impeding it in light of the stability that it could have afforded him.
It is not Plutarch's style to perorate in lofty generalities, and it is this very feature - his proclivity in providing actual historical examples in buttressing his lessons - that makes this book as highly interesting as it id instructive. Among his advices are:
1. Embark upon your political career fully prepared, with mindfulness and a sense of purpose, lest unforeseen tumult and challenges drag you unawares.
2. A leader must make sure that he first earns the trust and respect of those he governs before he, through perspicacity and superb rhetoric, tries to change their character.
3. Mentors are a great help to many a young man on the make, but the latter should be careful whom they opportune lest they lend themselves under the "protection" of a clandestine wolf.
4. Make sure your friends don't impinge upon the dignity of your office. Get them aboard if they're competent enough. They can act as controlled opposition for important measures, if necessary.
5. Don't hesitate to share political power with other capable (but non-contentious) politicians for the completion of projects that, through either their extent or difficulty, you cannot possibly conclude on your own. Their success can only add to your glory, while softening the public's envy through diffusion.
6. No matter your station in life, whether you're just starting out or on the summit of political power, always maintain a sense of humility and tact. Do not unnecessarily provoke people.
The last text has parallels to Cicero's Cato Maior de Senectute which I previously reviewed here. In it, Plutarch opined that it is a rather pitiful waste for a politician devoting himself to commonplace labor after having experienced the heights and glories of formal office. Contrast Pompey the Great, who died still active in the midst of a civil war, against Lucullus, who gave himself up to a life of unbridled hedonism after an admittedly illustrious career. Who ended up more celebrated, whose pursuit of pleasures left him both more sated and exalted?
If a citizen can be of continued effectual service to the state, it does not matter what his age is. One sharpens his intellect and burnishes his name not by resting on his laurels, but by seeking even greater opportunities to serve his nation. He should take advantage of the natural reverence and decreased envy his seniority inspires. Refusing idleness and avoiding the lures of unseemly decadence protects him from the public's contempt.
Elders and mentors in politics, either through direct counsel or in their equally instructive deeds, also prepare the young to lead an effective and productive career in the public sphere. They should not be too grasping of honors, but neither should they shun undertakings of great import. The training of a state's youth is a great civic duty, the task of which naturally falls upon those whose maturity and wisdom has been honed and tested.
8/10; 4 stars.
Each essay has a short introduction that shares some helpful insights, providing its gist so that reader has an idea as to what to expect from it. The original Greek texts are also provided, which is par for the course for Princeton's Ancient Wisdom series.
I particularly appreciate the helpful Notes and Glossary which, aside from providing the meaning of oft-used Greek and Roman political terms, also includes brief synopses on the lives of the various historical figures covered in the book. The preponderance of allusions to diverse historical personages, while daunting to anyone just dipping his toes into the world of the ancients, is not really that surprising though. Aside from the Moralia, Plutarch is also known for his Parallel Lives, a biographical anthology that compares and contrasts illustrious and notorious figures in Greek and Roman history.
I highly value the lessons the book teaches, though in thinking of the various vainglorious and venal vampires that have perpetuated themselves in power in our debased Age of Clay, one may be forgiven if they seem a tad too idealistic. There is still a core of pragmatism in them though, such as when the author enjoined leaders to enshrine Reason, acquired through a life of virtue and philosophical pursuit, as their main guide in the formulation and execution of policies that always have the common good at their very heart. This is because the shameless, emotionally-driven pursuit of status and power ultimately loosens one's very hold on them, while Reason bereft of base passions gives one a surer eye and a steadier hand with which to steer the Ship of State. One must master oneself completely before he can positively influence his subjects into bringing their best selves to the fore. Benevolence, self-sacrifice, righteousness - who can't help but be inspired by these?
I like how Plutarch never wavers in advising rulers to always pursue the Platonic ideals of the good, the beautiful, and the true, even if I can't help but hear the sad strains of realpolitik counterpointing his siren song of sterling virtue and justice. I admire how he anticipated this reticence however, reproaching Alexander the Great's envy of Diogenes by stating that his very puissance and station should have bolstered his pursuit of Reason instead of impeding it in light of the stability that it could have afforded him.
It is not Plutarch's style to perorate in lofty generalities, and it is this very feature - his proclivity in providing actual historical examples in buttressing his lessons - that makes this book as highly interesting as it id instructive. Among his advices are:
1. Embark upon your political career fully prepared, with mindfulness and a sense of purpose, lest unforeseen tumult and challenges drag you unawares.
2. A leader must make sure that he first earns the trust and respect of those he governs before he, through perspicacity and superb rhetoric, tries to change their character.
3. Mentors are a great help to many a young man on the make, but the latter should be careful whom they opportune lest they lend themselves under the "protection" of a clandestine wolf.
4. Make sure your friends don't impinge upon the dignity of your office. Get them aboard if they're competent enough. They can act as controlled opposition for important measures, if necessary.
5. Don't hesitate to share political power with other capable (but non-contentious) politicians for the completion of projects that, through either their extent or difficulty, you cannot possibly conclude on your own. Their success can only add to your glory, while softening the public's envy through diffusion.
6. No matter your station in life, whether you're just starting out or on the summit of political power, always maintain a sense of humility and tact. Do not unnecessarily provoke people.
The last text has parallels to Cicero's Cato Maior de Senectute which I previously reviewed here. In it, Plutarch opined that it is a rather pitiful waste for a politician devoting himself to commonplace labor after having experienced the heights and glories of formal office. Contrast Pompey the Great, who died still active in the midst of a civil war, against Lucullus, who gave himself up to a life of unbridled hedonism after an admittedly illustrious career. Who ended up more celebrated, whose pursuit of pleasures left him both more sated and exalted?
If a citizen can be of continued effectual service to the state, it does not matter what his age is. One sharpens his intellect and burnishes his name not by resting on his laurels, but by seeking even greater opportunities to serve his nation. He should take advantage of the natural reverence and decreased envy his seniority inspires. Refusing idleness and avoiding the lures of unseemly decadence protects him from the public's contempt.
Elders and mentors in politics, either through direct counsel or in their equally instructive deeds, also prepare the young to lead an effective and productive career in the public sphere. They should not be too grasping of honors, but neither should they shun undertakings of great import. The training of a state's youth is a great civic duty, the task of which naturally falls upon those whose maturity and wisdom has been honed and tested.
8/10; 4 stars.
November 6, 2020
Comprised of three essays – To the Uneducated Leader, How to Be a Good Leader, and Should an Old Man Engage in Politics – this is one of the longer entries into Princeton’s Ancient Wisdom series and well worth the extra reading commitment. No sense of philosophy cliffnotes here: readers can immerse themselves in Plutarch’s essays.
All three essays are excellent, and Beneker does a good job of providing historical context without bogging down the text. While the focus is on the political arena, many of the lessons would apply to any form of leadership. The essays are full of smart sound bytes, but reading the essays and experiencing their ebb and flow and longer analysis only makes the pithy remarks better. This is one I plan to reread at some point. Highly recommended.
All three essays are excellent, and Beneker does a good job of providing historical context without bogging down the text. While the focus is on the political arena, many of the lessons would apply to any form of leadership. The essays are full of smart sound bytes, but reading the essays and experiencing their ebb and flow and longer analysis only makes the pithy remarks better. This is one I plan to reread at some point. Highly recommended.
Read
June 21, 2020Somehow I like this one better than the modern works. Something about the culture of the ancients and their dedication to the community rings truer and moves me deeper. This was my first taste of Plutarch and I look forward to digging into his other works soon.
September 1, 2023
This was a very insightful and interesting read. The book is essentially comprised of letters and essays from a man named Plutarch who is writing to someone to address the ways in which one can be a leader, be a 'good' leader. He goes on to detail the ways in which one should serve people, more specifically the nature with which one should do this. Plutarch seems to hammer home the importance of a leader being a reflection of the good in the people (state). The book is definitely twinkled with a bit of stoicism and scepticism, for those who are a fan of these modes of thinking.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning about the nature in which one should lead people in any capacity, Greek history and philosophy. The book is an easy read as it is mostly comprised of letters addressed to someone aspiring to be a leader.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning about the nature in which one should lead people in any capacity, Greek history and philosophy. The book is an easy read as it is mostly comprised of letters addressed to someone aspiring to be a leader.
December 10, 2019
Plutarch mentions a lot of leaders from antiquity so if you aren’t well versed in Ancient Greek and Roman history it can be confusing to make applicable references. However, the overarching theme of leadership, old age and retirement ring true for a modern audience; a worthwhile read for emerging leaders, well established ones and those interested in ancient writings on the topic.
December 4, 2022
Another nice entry in Princeton Press' "Ancient Wisdom for Modern Authors" ongoing series. Translator Jeffrey Beneker offers us three essays from Plutarch's Moralia on politics and leadership: To an Uneducated Leader, How to Be a Good Leader, and Should an Old Man Engage in Politics? The resulting collection is full of very good advice for modern individuals who may be considering entering into politics, as well as for more established statesmen who are wondering if and when they should retire, or what their public role might be in their later years. Plutarch peppers his advice with plenty of historical examples, which for us serve two functions: on the one hand, they provide us with a series of valuable lessons in ancient history; on the other hand, they stimulate us to think about modern examples that could be used to integrate Plutarch if one were to write a contemporary version of the same book.
May 24, 2025
Good treatises on the importance of virtue for leadership and politics as a way of life. I’m becoming a bit of a Plutarch fan.
While I can’t comment on the translation quality, I didn’t hear anything to make me alarmed. The series as a whole seems solid, though maybe making some poor decisions recently.
While I can’t comment on the translation quality, I didn’t hear anything to make me alarmed. The series as a whole seems solid, though maybe making some poor decisions recently.
August 29, 2025
This book has deepened my appreciation for Plutarch and his wisdom on political service has incredible parallels to pastoral ministry.
I think this book could have benefited from footnotes instead of endnotes, and I don't feel that having the Greek text on the facing page was necessary(I'm sure the linguistic nerds love it), but otherwise I have no criticisms. Highly recommend!!
I think this book could have benefited from footnotes instead of endnotes, and I don't feel that having the Greek text on the facing page was necessary(I'm sure the linguistic nerds love it), but otherwise I have no criticisms. Highly recommend!!
October 12, 2024
This was good not great; Plutarch made palatable; always good to know that as far as all things human, and all things inter human go, nothing has changed that much in two millennia of living together and navigating your way through life; in the same series be sure to check out; How to Give: An Ancient Guide to Giving and Receiving and How to Keep Your Cool: An Ancient Guide to Anger Management.
March 4, 2024
Timeless wisdom on how to lead. I was pleasantly surprised at how readable it is too.
March 26, 2025
A great book on the philosophy of leadership with a lot of application for pastoral ministry.
March 7, 2021
I first heard of stoicism and its teachings less than two years ago and there have been many times since then when I wished I had known about it much earlier. How much peaceful some of my troubles and tribulations would have been I can only guess now.
May 24, 2021
Excellent wisdom on how to be a leader.
This book seems to be specifically written for the audience of anyone in politics or government.
A great set of timeless rules and policies!
3.9/5
This book seems to be specifically written for the audience of anyone in politics or government.
A great set of timeless rules and policies!
3.9/5
October 4, 2024
I have found Plutarch’s writings to be boring and a little hard to follow, and this book was no exception. Plutarch’s ultimate philosophy of leadership is to prioritize the state above the self, and to avoid envy at all cost in leadership. This work consists of three separate essays. The final essay is about why elder people must not retreat or retire from political leadership as old age brings further wisdom and the diminishment of temptations that come with youth. Plutarch wrote these essays for a student that could not perform proper apprenticeship for leadership, so Plutarch cites historical example after example to support his arguments about leadership (these numerous examples lend themselves to the argumentation being hard to follow as it can feel like he is going on tangents at times). Plutarch also understands his context well as he knows that small vices will appear great before the public when committed by leaders and politicians. Malicious people will also try to cast undue doubt and suspicion on leaders at times. Still, the politician must practice politics as a way of life rather than looking at leadership as some kind of task with a terminal goal.
April 18, 2022
Generally a good book that aligns with my value of leadership. It has a lot of good quotes:
- Kings are afraid for their subjects, while tyrants are afraid of their subjects.
- Cracked souls cannot contain political power, but they leak with desire, anger, boasting and vulgarity.
- Those who create personas for themselves to enter political (leadership) contests and earn glory, as actors do for the theatre, are guaranteed to suffer a change of heart, either because they have become enslaved to the people they thought they would rule, or because they have clashed with the people they wished to please.
- Judging politicians no less by their private than by their public habits, the people love and admire some, while towards others they feel disgust and scorn.
- Some, who are unpracticed in speaking, seek inelegant and unsophisticated means of getting a hold on the people. By giving feasts, they pull the people by the stomach, or by making donations they pull them by the wallet, or they are constantly putting on war dances or gladiatorial shows, and in this way the lead the people or rather they court the mob. For true leadership of people is leadership of those persuaded through speech, while taking the job as described above in no different from hunting and hearing irrational animals.
- You must not consider any citizen to be your personal enemy, unless someone is a disease or an open sore for the city.
- We must not accomplish all the public’s business by our own speeches, decrees, and actions but having under us assistants who are trustworthy and of good character, we should assign each one to the task for which they are best suited.
- When power appears to be distributed among many people, not only are we less troubled by an accumulation of envy, but we also are more capable of accomplishing what must be done.
- You must not think too highly of or place too much trust in your crown, since you can see the proconsul’s boots above your head.
- A good civic leader must keep everyone engaged in the political process, pacifying private citizens by ensuring equality and powerful citizens by allowing cooperation.
- Thrift is the finest and most stable safeguard of honour, whereas magnificent, inflated, and weighty rewards are swiftly toppled, just like badly proportioned statues.
- Kings are afraid for their subjects, while tyrants are afraid of their subjects.
- Cracked souls cannot contain political power, but they leak with desire, anger, boasting and vulgarity.
- Those who create personas for themselves to enter political (leadership) contests and earn glory, as actors do for the theatre, are guaranteed to suffer a change of heart, either because they have become enslaved to the people they thought they would rule, or because they have clashed with the people they wished to please.
- Judging politicians no less by their private than by their public habits, the people love and admire some, while towards others they feel disgust and scorn.
- Some, who are unpracticed in speaking, seek inelegant and unsophisticated means of getting a hold on the people. By giving feasts, they pull the people by the stomach, or by making donations they pull them by the wallet, or they are constantly putting on war dances or gladiatorial shows, and in this way the lead the people or rather they court the mob. For true leadership of people is leadership of those persuaded through speech, while taking the job as described above in no different from hunting and hearing irrational animals.
- You must not consider any citizen to be your personal enemy, unless someone is a disease or an open sore for the city.
- We must not accomplish all the public’s business by our own speeches, decrees, and actions but having under us assistants who are trustworthy and of good character, we should assign each one to the task for which they are best suited.
- When power appears to be distributed among many people, not only are we less troubled by an accumulation of envy, but we also are more capable of accomplishing what must be done.
- You must not think too highly of or place too much trust in your crown, since you can see the proconsul’s boots above your head.
- A good civic leader must keep everyone engaged in the political process, pacifying private citizens by ensuring equality and powerful citizens by allowing cooperation.
- Thrift is the finest and most stable safeguard of honour, whereas magnificent, inflated, and weighty rewards are swiftly toppled, just like badly proportioned statues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2023
Although it's not necessarily a popular view right now, I wholeheartedly believe that many "dead white males" still have important lessons to teach anyone willing to learn them. And Plutarch's three essays in this collection are excellent examples of that.
Simply put, it is remarkable how modern and applicable Plutarch's advice on being a good leader still is. In "To an Uneducated Leader," "How to Be a Good Leader," and "Should an Old Man Engage in Politics?," the ancient biographer and essayist explains the characteristics of effective (and ineffective) leaders, which includes being guided by reason, exercising self-restraint, and being free from both envy and the love of power.
Jeffrey Beneker's translation of Plutarch surprisingly modern-sounding advice is eminently readable and enjoyable. So, kudos to the professor of classics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Here are just a few examples of how relevant Plutarch's writings remain:
"Leaders, in fact, must be more afraid of inflicting harm than of suffering harm themselves." [p. 23]
"It is, of course, impossible for vices to go unnoticed when people hold positions of power...when jars are empty you cannot distinguish between those that are intact and those that are damaged, but once you fill them, then the leaks appear. Just so, cracked souls cannot contain political power, but they leak with desire, anger, boasting, and vulgarity." [pp. 38-39]
"...trust in a person's character and a lack of trust both have great influence in politics." [p. 75]
"You must not, in fact, consider any citizen to be your personal enemy...I personally think that politicians should testify to the just actions even of those people with whom they are at odds politically." [pp. 123-125]
"...practicing politics is just like practicing philosophy...our lives are open to philosophy at all times and in every aspect, while experiencing every emotion, and in each and every activity." [pp. 328-329]
These are a just a few of the gems in this work, one that I will recommend to all the leaders with whom I work in my coaching, training, and consulting practice.
Simply put, it is remarkable how modern and applicable Plutarch's advice on being a good leader still is. In "To an Uneducated Leader," "How to Be a Good Leader," and "Should an Old Man Engage in Politics?," the ancient biographer and essayist explains the characteristics of effective (and ineffective) leaders, which includes being guided by reason, exercising self-restraint, and being free from both envy and the love of power.
Jeffrey Beneker's translation of Plutarch surprisingly modern-sounding advice is eminently readable and enjoyable. So, kudos to the professor of classics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Here are just a few examples of how relevant Plutarch's writings remain:
"Leaders, in fact, must be more afraid of inflicting harm than of suffering harm themselves." [p. 23]
"It is, of course, impossible for vices to go unnoticed when people hold positions of power...when jars are empty you cannot distinguish between those that are intact and those that are damaged, but once you fill them, then the leaks appear. Just so, cracked souls cannot contain political power, but they leak with desire, anger, boasting, and vulgarity." [pp. 38-39]
"...trust in a person's character and a lack of trust both have great influence in politics." [p. 75]
"You must not, in fact, consider any citizen to be your personal enemy...I personally think that politicians should testify to the just actions even of those people with whom they are at odds politically." [pp. 123-125]
"...practicing politics is just like practicing philosophy...our lives are open to philosophy at all times and in every aspect, while experiencing every emotion, and in each and every activity." [pp. 328-329]
These are a just a few of the gems in this work, one that I will recommend to all the leaders with whom I work in my coaching, training, and consulting practice.
June 6, 2021
Contains 3 essays from Plutarch (AD 46–119) on Leadership. Packed full of great leadership nuggets. Plutarch includes countless examples from ancient history and literature. Plutarch stresses virtue as the foundation of leadership. He stresses that a leader is a servant. I can't imagine what he would say about our current culture of political leadership.
In a culture where it's common to boast and post about anything a leader does, Plutarch offers of the example of Cato the Elder, "at a time when Rome was already filled with statues, would not allow one to be made of himself, saying, 'I would prefer to have people asking why there is no statue of me rather than asking why there is one.'”
--Surround yourself with colleagues who are smarter than you are and don't be afraid of that.
--Use your power and platform to speak positively about your rivals. If a political enemy does something good, recognize it. When does that happen in our world?
--Warns of the danger of bad leaders, "Depravity, once combined with political power, races to give expression to every emotion: it converts anger into murder, love into adultery, and greed into the confiscation of property.”
--Work to be a virtuous person, “For the one who is tipping over cannot straighten up someone else, nor can the ignorant person teach, the disorderly establish order, the disorganized organize, the ungoverned govern. But most leaders misunderstand this, thinking instead that the greatest benefit in governing is the freedom from being governed themselves”
In a culture where it's common to boast and post about anything a leader does, Plutarch offers of the example of Cato the Elder, "at a time when Rome was already filled with statues, would not allow one to be made of himself, saying, 'I would prefer to have people asking why there is no statue of me rather than asking why there is one.'”
--Surround yourself with colleagues who are smarter than you are and don't be afraid of that.
--Use your power and platform to speak positively about your rivals. If a political enemy does something good, recognize it. When does that happen in our world?
--Warns of the danger of bad leaders, "Depravity, once combined with political power, races to give expression to every emotion: it converts anger into murder, love into adultery, and greed into the confiscation of property.”
--Work to be a virtuous person, “For the one who is tipping over cannot straighten up someone else, nor can the ignorant person teach, the disorderly establish order, the disorganized organize, the ungoverned govern. But most leaders misunderstand this, thinking instead that the greatest benefit in governing is the freedom from being governed themselves”
January 1, 2023
''In truth: Kings are afraid for their subjects, whilst tyrants are afraid of their subjects.''
''I hate that man and which to do him harm, but I love my country more.''
"Even if our human nature seeks pleasure and joy by all means. The bodies of old people have given up on all pleasures. Except those few who are necessary. And not only is Aphrodite exasperated by the elderly - but old people desire food and drink that are mostly dull and exasperated and toothless. "
"A friendship once established does not require many great services in order to be maintained - but small gestures frequently made will preserve the friends good will. Nor do the friendship or trust of the people always require that you sponsor courses or appear in court or hold office but they are maintained by your very eagerness and by not quitting or walking away from your commission and responsibility."
''The real general is the one who sees both beyond and behind political affairs. And when discerning upon a course of action remains untroubled by any passion. Sophocles said that in growing old he gladly escaped sexual pleasures as tough he had escaped a savage and rabid master. But in politics we must Escape not a single master, that is to say the desire for youths or women - but many masters even more maniacal than this. Contentious, love of Glory, desire to be first and greatest and the sickness that produces envy jealousy and dissension in abondance.''
4.5
''I hate that man and which to do him harm, but I love my country more.''
"Even if our human nature seeks pleasure and joy by all means. The bodies of old people have given up on all pleasures. Except those few who are necessary. And not only is Aphrodite exasperated by the elderly - but old people desire food and drink that are mostly dull and exasperated and toothless. "
"A friendship once established does not require many great services in order to be maintained - but small gestures frequently made will preserve the friends good will. Nor do the friendship or trust of the people always require that you sponsor courses or appear in court or hold office but they are maintained by your very eagerness and by not quitting or walking away from your commission and responsibility."
''The real general is the one who sees both beyond and behind political affairs. And when discerning upon a course of action remains untroubled by any passion. Sophocles said that in growing old he gladly escaped sexual pleasures as tough he had escaped a savage and rabid master. But in politics we must Escape not a single master, that is to say the desire for youths or women - but many masters even more maniacal than this. Contentious, love of Glory, desire to be first and greatest and the sickness that produces envy jealousy and dissension in abondance.''
4.5
April 18, 2025
The only place in my life where I am a leader is in the Winooski Bike Gang. Once a week from April through October I lead one of our rides. I feel responsible for helping participants have a good ride. I know my powers to do so are limited. I can’t control the traffic, the weather or the condition of the bikes participant are riding. There are some things I can do, things I have learned over the five years I have been leading rides. I don’t make the rides too long, and we stop every once in a while to take a break and also to let anyone who has fallen behind catch up. I run what is called a no-drop ride, which means we don’t leave anyone behind. I also try to make everyone feel welcome. My ride, as well as the other rides, have fostered new friendships. I feel great about that! More than one person has told me that as newcomers in town, they have found it difficult to find friends, but that our group has enabled them to make connections.
One of the most important features of leading is being a volunteer. I am lucky that I get paid for work that I believe helps other people. This is a privilege. Volunteering is different. It feels as if I am giving a gift to the biking community. In return I get to feel close to a bunch of really great folks. Any good leader hopes to erase their own position. Eventually the group may just get together, decided on a route, and ride it. I will be happy when that happens.
One of the most important features of leading is being a volunteer. I am lucky that I get paid for work that I believe helps other people. This is a privilege. Volunteering is different. It feels as if I am giving a gift to the biking community. In return I get to feel close to a bunch of really great folks. Any good leader hopes to erase their own position. Eventually the group may just get together, decided on a route, and ride it. I will be happy when that happens.
May 9, 2025
Another audiobook from the Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers series. An edited title based on Plutarch's writings, read this time by Matthew Waterson.
Three topics are focused on in the book: "To an Uneducated Leader", "How to be a good Leader", and "Should an Old Man Engage in Politics". All are OK and to me none stand above the others. Waterson does an OK job reading, but would have liked more enthusiasm as the material is not the most exciting.
As for the material itself, it seems all leadership in Plutarch's eyes is and revolves around politics and politicians. While others were brought up, Alexander the Great, Marc Anthony, etc., the VAST majority were engaged in politics. Now I am not saying that a leader should not be, cannot be, or should be in that line of work, but then change the title to reflect the subject better is all I am hinting at.
What Editor Jeffrey Beneker does do well at is let Plutarch be himself and give definitions and outlines what good leadership requires and shows real life examples from his times. Very commonsensical, very ideal, but also not impossible bars to reach as far as leadership goes.
I give this a three out of five stars, this is a good topic that should be read by any and all aspiring leadership candidate people. My issues I stated, but all-in-all this was a good book.
Three topics are focused on in the book: "To an Uneducated Leader", "How to be a good Leader", and "Should an Old Man Engage in Politics". All are OK and to me none stand above the others. Waterson does an OK job reading, but would have liked more enthusiasm as the material is not the most exciting.
As for the material itself, it seems all leadership in Plutarch's eyes is and revolves around politics and politicians. While others were brought up, Alexander the Great, Marc Anthony, etc., the VAST majority were engaged in politics. Now I am not saying that a leader should not be, cannot be, or should be in that line of work, but then change the title to reflect the subject better is all I am hinting at.
What Editor Jeffrey Beneker does do well at is let Plutarch be himself and give definitions and outlines what good leadership requires and shows real life examples from his times. Very commonsensical, very ideal, but also not impossible bars to reach as far as leadership goes.
I give this a three out of five stars, this is a good topic that should be read by any and all aspiring leadership candidate people. My issues I stated, but all-in-all this was a good book.
March 10, 2023
Plutarch’s reputation is well deserved. This was my first time reading one of his works after hearing his name a million times. It was an enjoyable read with inspirational stories from ancient leadership examples. I was inspired and entertained, which is a delicate balance to maintain.
He does name drop A LOT. I consider myself an amateur classicist and I hard a hard time keeping up with all the references. But I enjoyed learning about leaders from the ancient world.
One of my favorite lessons from the book is that leadership ideas don’t only apply to Political leaders. There are many areas in life where we have to be virtuous, set an example, and lead others to living a better life. Plutarch shows us how we can be great leaders in both our private and public life.
He does name drop A LOT. I consider myself an amateur classicist and I hard a hard time keeping up with all the references. But I enjoyed learning about leaders from the ancient world.
One of my favorite lessons from the book is that leadership ideas don’t only apply to Political leaders. There are many areas in life where we have to be virtuous, set an example, and lead others to living a better life. Plutarch shows us how we can be great leaders in both our private and public life.
April 28, 2024
Timeless advice, although it is impossible not to read this and see how current politicians compare, concluding that they fall far short. I’m guessing this is pretty much the point, but it is still depressing.
Still, if I ever find myself in politics this will be worth a re-read in detail.
Some quotes I noted down:
“Kings are afraid for their subjects, while tyrants are afraid of their subjects.”
''I hate that man and wish to do him harm, but I love my country more.''
“Just like a blemish is more notable if it is on one’s face rather than elsewhere, a fault is more noticeable with a leader than others” (Paraphrased, since I can’t find the quote anymore).
https://4201mass.blogspot.com/
Still, if I ever find myself in politics this will be worth a re-read in detail.
Some quotes I noted down:
“Kings are afraid for their subjects, while tyrants are afraid of their subjects.”
''I hate that man and wish to do him harm, but I love my country more.''
“Just like a blemish is more notable if it is on one’s face rather than elsewhere, a fault is more noticeable with a leader than others” (Paraphrased, since I can’t find the quote anymore).
https://4201mass.blogspot.com/
March 4, 2020
A new translation and arrangement of important writing from ancient times. Much to be translated and to be considered, especially since leadership has been around a long long time, it’s best to sift through all the best work done on it from times when writing books and hand-copying them cost a lot of money and tine and resources. Worth reading every year. Going on my re-read list - this sort of book is worth hearing again and again and seeing what you hear and see the next time you read it. It’s not pop fun insight like the best of today’s books, but it’s age and wisdom anchors the reader who works to listen to it in old and tested wisdom.
September 9, 2021
Meh
This review is for the ebook and perhaps my low rating would be different were I holding the physical copy. My complaint is that Plutarch is old. As in should be free. When I purchased this, not cheaply either, I was expecting analysis, extrapolation, or modern examples via a companion essay. Let me be clear, Plutarch does not disappoint. I highly recommend his essays, on leadership and many other topics. All of which can be found open source on the internet via a search (Gutenberg.org).
What you will get with this purchase can be found 90% for free on the internet. If you like the idea of “owning” “ancient wisdom” the purchase away…
This review is for the ebook and perhaps my low rating would be different were I holding the physical copy. My complaint is that Plutarch is old. As in should be free. When I purchased this, not cheaply either, I was expecting analysis, extrapolation, or modern examples via a companion essay. Let me be clear, Plutarch does not disappoint. I highly recommend his essays, on leadership and many other topics. All of which can be found open source on the internet via a search (Gutenberg.org).
What you will get with this purchase can be found 90% for free on the internet. If you like the idea of “owning” “ancient wisdom” the purchase away…
April 15, 2020
I love that this edition has the Greek text on the opposing page. The foot notes are also copious and excellent. But a boo of this nature should have better binding so that it it will lay flat for further study. And the selections for this volume were just so so in my opinion. If you haven't read any Plutarch before, you must begin with his "Lives." It's a collection of short biographies from ancient Greek and Roman leaders and heroes. It is one of the most resd works in all of human history, and it is absolutely FANTASTIC.
January 1, 2021
Interesting but dated. I found Plutarch's reflections on leadership, and specifically his description of the pitfalls of wielding too much power for too long, to be interesting. Clearly describing a system that he could see, not just babbling about observations but rather framing a theory of power using contemporary examples. Can't recommend to would-be power-brokers for reasons which should be obvious but is an amusing diversion for anyone loosely interested in the history of power in the west from a perspective which isn't imperialist.
February 6, 2024
Yet another absolute banger of a philosophy novel. To be fair, I've been listening to some of these at work as well as reading them at home. But I really enjoyed this one. One of my favorite quotes from it was
"Leaders fear FOR their people, Tyrants are afraid OF their people."
Plutarch certainly knew his way around politics. Whether he directly spent time with the upper class during the Pax Romana or he simply was a very learned man, he knew what he was talking about. Drawing from many sources and time periods, he was clearly an educated man. I highly suggest this source!
"Leaders fear FOR their people, Tyrants are afraid OF their people."
Plutarch certainly knew his way around politics. Whether he directly spent time with the upper class during the Pax Romana or he simply was a very learned man, he knew what he was talking about. Drawing from many sources and time periods, he was clearly an educated man. I highly suggest this source!
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