Working beyond the inclination to inaugurate alternative theoretical traditions alongside canonical sociology, this article demonstrates the value of recovering latent gender theory from within classic concepts—in this case, Weber’s “charisma.” Close readings of Weber reveal, (a) tools for theorizing extraordinary, non-masculinist agency, and, (b) clues that account for the conventional wisdom (popular and scholastic) that charisma is “not for women.” While contemporary movements may be tempted to eschew charismatic leadership per se because of legacies of dominance by men, (...) there is value in Weber’s formulation, which anticipated the performative turn in social theory that would destabilize biologistic gender ontologies. Value in this exchange also flows back to Weber: by confronting his intermittent tendency to describe charisma in terms that we now recognize as “customs of manly power,” we reveal heretofore unseen imperfections (i.e., traditionalist modes of legitimation) in his ideal-type. This engagement thus demonstrates an empowering mutuality between contemporary gender theory and “the classics.” The article ends by theorising the nexus of gender and charisma in the case of Trump, pointing to possibilities for vitiating Donald Trump’s charisma, as well as for anti-Trumpian charisma. (shrink)

The connection between leadership style, on the one hand, policing and perception of corruption, on the other hand, has received little attention in the literature on leadership theory and organizational processes. Hence, the aim of this study is to examine the relationship between transformational leadership and perception of corruption within the police institution, especially in this instance, the Nigeria Police Force. Based on a sampling process of cross sectional approach, the data were collected by administering questionnaires on 156 respondents in (...) Alausa police district in Lagos State. The descriptive result shows that while transformational leadership is practiced in the Nigeria Police Force, the perceived level of corruption remains high. Though in varying degree, the results indicate a positive correlation between the attributes of transformational leadership (charisma, individualized consideration and intellectual stimulation) and the dimensions of corruption. While charisma consistently has a positive influence on the facets of corruption, individualized consideration and charisma influence the dimension of transparency within the police force. In addition, individualized consideration influences the facet of crime. Thus, transformational leadership seems to play an important, but complex role in the reduction of corrupt practices within the police institution. The findings were discussed in the specific contexts of transformational leadership theory, organizational practices and police corruption. The practical implications for organizational development, police reform and crusade against police deviances were also underscored. (shrink)

This article investigates the ethical requirements and features that characterize the professional life of successful contemporary classical orchestras, with particular focus on the leadership style of their conductors. As we will show, the traditional authoritarian approach, marked by the conductor’s commanding charisma and strict demand for obedience from orchestra members, has evolved today into a more ethically-based transformational style of leadership. This new approach is rooted in principles of respect, voluntary compliance, and trust. The present paper delves into the (...) interpersonal dynamics within contemporary orchestras, focusing specifically on the character traits required to establish trust and collaboration between the conductor and the orchestra members, as well as among the orchestra members themselves. In particular, drawing from recent research in psychology, we underscore the significance of deference, empathy, and shared commitment toward the common goal of excellence in performance. We conclude that the ethics-centered style of leadership adopted by most contemporary conductors may extend beyond the realm of music, offering insights applicable to leaders in various other fields. By fostering deep connections, shared purpose, and collaboration, this approach has the potential to enhance organizational performance and outcomes in general. (shrink)

This article suggests that Buber's idea of the community may hint at an alternative to the more common foundations of political thought, usually grounded on notions of power or rationality. Showing how Buber's idea of the community developed from a neo-romantic form (in his early writings) to a principle informed by the dialogical dimension of human life (from I and Thou onwards), I will point out the vertical dimension of political life ensuing from Buber's discourse. A discussion of the theopolitical (...) principle as expressed in Buber's Kingship of God will lead to the conclusion that, both descriptively and normatively, politics needs an openness to transcendence. (shrink)

Genius Is Not About Popularity -/- Throughout history, the concept of genius has often been misunderstood. Many equate genius with fame, believing that the most recognized figures in science, art, and philosophy are necessarily the greatest minds. However, true genius is not about popularity; it is about depth of insight, originality of thought, and contributions to human progress, regardless of public recognition. Some of the most brilliant minds were overlooked in their time, yet their ideas shaped the future. This essay (...) explores why genius is independent of popularity and how history has proven that true intellectual greatness often transcends societal recognition. -/- The Nature of Genius -/- Genius is characterized by extraordinary intellectual ability, creativity, and the capacity to think beyond conventional wisdom. A true genius is not necessarily someone who seeks attention or public validation but someone who pursues knowledge and innovation for its own sake. Many geniuses are ahead of their time, which can result in their ideas being ignored or misunderstood. Unlike celebrities or influential public figures, a genius does not necessarily attract mass appeal because their work often requires a level of understanding that only a few can appreciate during their lifetime. -/- Unrecognized Geniuses in History -/- History is filled with examples of individuals whose genius was not recognized until long after their death. One of the most famous cases is Nikola Tesla, a brilliant inventor and engineer whose contributions to electrical engineering were largely overshadowed by more business-savvy figures like Thomas Edison. Tesla’s work on alternating current (AC) power revolutionized the world, yet he died in relative obscurity. -/- Another example is Gregor Mendel, the father of modern genetics. Mendel’s groundbreaking experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for genetic inheritance, yet his work was largely ignored during his lifetime. It was only decades later that scientists realized the significance of his discoveries, which are now fundamental to biology. -/- Similarly, Vincent van Gogh is celebrated today as one of the greatest painters in history, yet he sold only a few paintings during his lifetime. His artistic vision was not widely appreciated, and he struggled with poverty and mental illness. His posthumous fame is a testament to how genius is often ahead of its time and only recognized when society catches up with its vision. -/- The philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, who laid the foundation for existentialist thought, was largely dismissed during his lifetime. Today, his writings influence fields as diverse as philosophy, psychology, and theology. Similarly, Ada Lovelace, who worked on Charles Babbage’s early mechanical computer, was virtually unknown during her time but is now recognized as one of the first computer programmers. -/- Alan Turing, whose work in cryptography helped end World War II, was largely unrecognized in his lifetime due to prevailing social prejudices. His contributions to computer science and artificial intelligence were only widely acknowledged decades after his tragic death. Likewise, the works of Emily Dickinson, now considered some of the greatest poetry in American literature, remained unpublished until after her passing. -/- Another overlooked genius was Hypatia of Alexandria, a pioneering mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher in ancient Greece. Despite her immense contrib”tions to science and philosophy, she was largely erased from history due to political and religious turmoil. Similarly, Joseph Priestley, the scientist who discovered oxygen, did not receive immediate recognition because his findings conflicted with mainstream scientific beliefs at the time. -/- Another modern example is Rosalind Franklin, whose work in X-ray crystallography was crucial to the discovery of DNA’s double helix structure. However, her contributions were overshadowed by Watson and Crick, who received most of the credit for the discovery. Additionally, Ignaz Semmelweis, a 19th-century physician who introduced handwashing in medical practice to prevent infections, was dismissed and ridiculed during his time, only for his ideas to become foundational in modern medicine. -/- Other overlooked geniuses include Ludwig Boltzmann, who developed statistical mechanics, a cornerstone of modern physics. His work was dismissed by many during his lifetime, leading to his tragic death. Similarly, Emmy Noether, one of the greatest mathematicians in history, made groundbreaking contributions to abstract algebra and theoretical physics but was largely unrecognized due to gender biases. -/- Johan Sebastian Bach, now considered one of the greatest composers, was not widely appreciated during his lifetime and was overshadowed by more fashionable composers of his era. Likewise, Henri Poincaré, whose work in mathematics and theoretical physics laid the groundwork for chaos theory and relativity, was often overlooked in favor of his contemporaries. -/- Popularity vs. Impact -/- Popularity is often dictated by trends, media influence, and societal values, whereas genius is about intellectual contribution and long-term impact. Many popular figures may gain widespread recognition due to charisma, marketing, or entertainment value, but that does not necessarily mean they have made groundbreaking contributions to human knowledge. In contrast, some of the most transformative ideas in science, philosophy, and art have come from individuals who were not widely known in their era. -/- Moreover, some geniuses actively avoid the spotlight, preferring to focus on their work rather than public recognition. Albert Einstein, despite becoming famous later in life, initially worked in obscurity as a patent clerk before his theories revolutionized physics. Similarly, mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan made astonishing contributions to number theory without formal education or widespread recognition during his lifetime. -/- The Importance of Recognizing True Genius -/- While popularity can bring attention to ideas, it is important to differentiate between recognition and true intellectual brilliance. Society should strive to support and acknowledge innovative thinkers even if their ideas are not immediately understood or appreciated. Educational institutions, scientific communities, and cultural organizations have a responsibility to foster environments where unconventional ideas can thrive, ensuring that genius is recognized based on merit rather than mass appeal. -/- Conclusion -/- Genius is not about popularity; it is about profound intellectual contributions that shape the world. Many great minds were overlooked in their time, only to be celebrated long after their deaths. History shows that true genius often works in obscurity, pushing the boundaries of knowledge regardless of societal recognition. Instead of equating fame with intelligence, we should value deep thinking, innovation, and originality, ensuring that future generations recognize and support those who truly advance human understanding. -/- . (shrink)

The Qualities, Challenges, and Successes of an Excellent Leader Across Politics, Business, and Education -/- Introduction -/- Leadership is a defining force in shaping societies, businesses, and educational institutions. The effectiveness of a leader is not solely determined by their title or power but by their ability to Inspire, innovate, and solve problems while upholding ethical integrity. Whether in politics, business, or education, great leaders share common qualifications and personality traits, yet they must also adapt to unique challenges within their (...) respective fields. This essay explores the fundamental characteristics of excellent leaders, the obstacles they face, and the strategies they use to create meaningful impact. -/- I. Qualifications and Personality Traits of an Excellent Leader -/- A. Essential Qualifications and Skills -/- Regardless of the industry, an excellent leader must possess: -/- Knowledge and Expertise – Mastery of governance, market trends, or education systems. -/- Strategic Thinking – The ability to anticipate challenges and make long-term plans. -/- Decision-Making Skills – Confidence in making high-stakes choices. -/- Effective Communication – Clarity in expression and active listening. -/- Problem-Solving Ability – Finding creative solutions to complex issues. -/- Adaptability and Lifelong Learning – Adjusting strategies based on evolving circumstances. -/- Delegation and Team Management – Trusting subordinates and empowering teams. -/- Integrity and Accountability – Leading with honesty and responsibility. -/- B. Key Personality Traits -/- In addition to technical skills, an excellent leader must embody: -/- Vision and Inspiration – The ability to motivate and guide others toward a shared goal. -/- Confidence and Charisma – Instilling trust and enthusiasm in followers. -/- Emotional Intelligence – Understanding and managing emotions effectively. -/- Resilience and Perseverance – Maintaining strength despite adversity. -/- Humility and Self-Awareness – Recognizing one’s strengths and areas for growth. -/- Empathy and Compassion – Understanding the needs and struggles of others. -/- Decisiveness with Open-Mindedness – Making firm choices while considering diverse perspectives. -/- While these qualities are essential for all leaders, their application differs across politics, business, and education, as each field presents unique challenges and opportunities. -/- II. Leadership in Politics: Challenges and Solutions -/- A. Uniting a Divided Nation -/- One of the greatest challenges for political leaders is uniting citizens during periods of division. A notable example is Abraham Lincoln, who led the United States during the Civil War. Despite widespread disagreement over slavery and state rights, Lincoln used strategic communication and a moral vision to rally the nation. His Emancipation Proclamation redefined the war’s purpose, emphasizing freedom and unity. -/- B. Fighting Corruption in Government -/- Corruption undermines progress, and political leaders must uphold strong ethical standards. Lee Kuan Yew, the first Prime Minister of Singapore, transformed his country by enforcing strict anti-corruption laws and promoting meritocracy. His leadership ensured Singapore’s rapid economic rise, proving that integrity is essential in governance. -/- C. Managing Economic Crises -/- During the Great Depression, Franklin D. Roosevelt faced an economic collapse that left millions unemployed. He introduced the New Deal, creating jobs and financial security programs. His ability to act boldly and provide hope helped restore economic stability, demonstrating that crisis leadership requires both pragmatism and vision. -/- Political leaders must navigate public trust, ethical governance, and crisis management to create a lasting impact. -/- III. Leadership in Business: Challenges and Solutions -/- A. Innovating in a Competitive Market -/- Business leaders must drive innovation to stay relevant. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, revitalized the company in 1997 by simplifying product lines, focusing on design, and introducing the iMac, iPod, and iPhone. His ability to anticipate consumer needs and redefine technology made Apple a global leader. -/- B. Handling Public Backlash and Crisis -/- Leaders often face setbacks, as seen with Elon Musk’s challenges in Tesla and SpaceX. Tesla nearly collapsed due to production delays, and SpaceX suffered multiple rocket failures. Musk’s resilience and continuous refinement of technology eventually led to both companies’ success, proving that failure is an opportunity for learning and improvement. -/- C. Scaling a Startup into a Global Brand -/- Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba, faced intense competition from eBay and Amazon. By focusing on China’s local market and empowering small businesses, he turned Alibaba into an e-commerce giant. His leadership highlights the importance of understanding market needs and building a strong brand identity. -/- Business leaders must balance innovation, crisis management, and global strategy to build and sustain successful enterprises. -/- IV. Leadership in Education: Challenges and Solutions -/- A. Reforming Outdated Education Systems -/- Educational leaders must adapt learning models to better serve students. Maria Montessori revolutionized early childhood education by creating a student-centered approach, allowing children to learn at their own pace. Her method is now used worldwide, proving that challenging traditional systems can lead to better learning outcomes. -/- B. Ensuring Equal Access to Quality Education -/- In many parts of the world, education is still a privilege rather than a right. Malala Yousafzai fought for girls’ education in Pakistan despite facing life-threatening dangers. Her activism led to global policy changes, showcasing that fearless advocacy can break educational barriers. -/- C. Leading Schools During a Crisis (COVID-19 Pandemic) -/- When the COVID-19 pandemic forced schools to close, educational leaders had to quickly transition to online learning. Successful leaders implemented digital tools, teacher training, and student support programs to maintain educational quality. Their ability to embrace technology and prioritize student well-being was crucial during the crisis. -/- Educational leaders must focus on innovation, accessibility, and adaptability to improve learning systems. -/- V. Leadership Styles & Adaptability -/- A great leader adapts their leadership style based on circumstances: -/- Transformational Leadership – Inspires innovation and major change (e.g., Steve Jobs). -/- Servant Leadership – Prioritizes team members’ needs (e.g., Malala Yousafzai). -/- Authoritative Leadership – Makes decisive choices in crises (e.g., Franklin D. Roosevelt). -/- Democratic Leadership – Encourages collaboration and shared decision-making (e.g., Lee Kuan Yew). -/- The best leaders balance these styles to meet challenges effectively. -/- V. Conclusion: The Universal Principles of Great Leadership -/- Whether in politics, business, or education, an excellent leader shares common traits: vision, resilience, adaptability, and ethical integrity. However, their leadership is defined by how they apply these qualities to real-world problems. Political leaders must focus on unity and governance, business leaders on innovation and market strategy, and educational leaders on accessibility and reform. -/- The greatest leaders in history prove that true leadership is not about power, but about creating lasting positive change. By understanding and applying these principles, future leaders can shape a better world. -/- . (shrink)

The Concept of Power: Its Nature, Forms, and Impact -/- Introduction -/- Power is one of the most fundamental forces shaping human civilization, scientific progress, and personal development. It is present in every aspect of life—from the natural world to political structures, from economic systems to personal relationships. At its core, power is the ability to influence, control, or direct outcomes, whether through force, knowledge, persuasion, or other means. -/- However, power can be used in both constructive and destructive ways. (...) While ethical power leads to progress and justice, the misuse of power creates oppression, corruption, and societal imbalance. This essay explores different dimensions of power, including scientific, political, economic, and philosophical power, while also highlighting examples of the misuse of power and its consequences. -/- Forms of Power -/- 1. Physical and Scientific Power -/- In the scientific realm, power is defined as the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred. It is a measurable quantity, expressed in watts (W), and is essential in fields such as engineering, mechanics, and electricity. -/- For example, in mechanical engineering, a car engine generates power by converting fuel into kinetic energy, allowing the vehicle to move. Similarly, in renewable energy, solar panels convert sunlight into electrical power, demonstrating how natural forces can be harnessed for human use. -/- Misuse of Scientific Power: Nuclear Weapons -/- A key example of the misuse of scientific power is the development of nuclear weapons. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 demonstrated the destructive potential of scientific advancements when used irresponsibly. While nuclear energy can be a powerful source of clean electricity, its military application led to mass destruction, the loss of thousands of innocent lives, and long-term environmental and health consequences. -/- 2. Social and Political Power -/- Political power is the ability to influence governance, policies, and social structures. It exists at different levels, from small communities to global institutions. -/- Types of Political Power: -/- Legitimate power: Derived from laws and democratic institutions, such as the authority of an elected president or parliament. -/- Coercive power: Based on force, often seen in dictatorships or police states where compliance is ensured through fear. -/- Soft power: The ability to shape opinions and values through culture, diplomacy, and media, as seen in the global influence of Hollywood movies or international organizations like the United Nations. -/- Example of Proper Political Power Use: Nelson Mandela’s leadership in South Africa was an example of moral and legitimate power. Despite being imprisoned for 27 years, he led his country to end apartheid through reconciliation rather than revenge. -/- Misuse of Political Power: Dictatorships and Oppression -/- Example: Adolf Hitler (Nazi Germany) One of the most infamous examples of political power being used in the wrong way is Adolf Hitler’s regime in Nazi Germany. Hitler gained power through democratic means but later abolished freedoms, controlled information, and used propaganda to manipulate the masses. His leadership led to World War II, the Holocaust, and the deaths of millions of people. His misuse of political power resulted in genocide, war crimes, and long-term global instability. -/- Example: North Korea’s Authoritarian Rule In modern times, North Korea is an example of political power used to oppress rather than empower. The government, led by Kim Jong-un, controls every aspect of citizens’ lives, from their access to information to their ability to leave the country. The country’s resources are allocated to its military, while many citizens suffer from poverty and starvation. This is an example of power used to control people rather than improve their well-being. -/- 3. Psychological and Personal Power -/- Personal power is an individual’s ability to influence their own life and the lives of others. It can take many forms: -/- Inner power: Strength, resilience, and self-discipline, allowing people to overcome adversity. -/- Social power: Charisma, persuasion, and emotional intelligence that enable individuals to lead and inspire others. -/- Knowledge power: The ability to gain influence through education and expertise. -/- Example of Proper Personal Power Use: The philosopher Socrates possessed immense intellectual power. Even without political authority, his ideas shaped Western thought through questioning and critical thinking. Today, leaders and influencers continue to shape society using their intellectual power. -/- Misuse of Psychological Power: Manipulation and Propaganda -/- Example: Cult Leaders (Jim Jones and the Jonestown Massacre) Some individuals misuse personal power to manipulate others for selfish or destructive purposes. A tragic example is Jim Jones, the leader of the People’s Temple cult. He used psychological manipulation to gain total control over his followers, leading to the infamous Jonestown Massacre in 1978, where over 900 people died in a mass murder-suicide. -/- Example: Social Media Misinformation In today’s digital age, personal power is often misused on social media platforms. False information and propaganda are used to manipulate public opinion, often leading to social division, violence, and political unrest. -/- 4. Economic Power -/- Economic power refers to control over financial resources, industries, and markets. Those who control wealth often shape global and national policies, technological advancements, and even cultural trends. -/- Proper Use of Economic Power: -/- Corporate power: Companies like Amazon, Google, and Tesla wield significant economic power, influencing markets and technological innovation. -/- Wealth and capital: Billionaires such as Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos can impact industries like space travel and artificial intelligence through private investments. -/- Misuse of Economic Power: Corporate Greed and Exploitation -/- Example: The 2008 Financial Crisis The 2008 financial crisis was a result of large financial institutions misusing their economic power. Banks engaged in reckless lending, market manipulation, and financial fraud, leading to a global economic collapse. Millions of people lost their jobs, homes, and savings due to the greed and irresponsibility of a few. -/- Example: Sweatshops and Worker Exploitation Some multinational corporations use their economic power to exploit cheap labor in developing countries, forcing workers to endure low wages, unsafe conditions, and inhumane treatment. This misuse of power highlights the dark side of economic influence when profit is prioritized over ethics. -/- 5. Power in Nature and Universal Law -/- From the perspective of the universal law of balance in nature, power must be aligned with natural equilibrium to ensure sustainability and harmony. If power is used excessively or irresponsibly, it creates imbalances—whether in the environment, society, or personal well-being. -/- Misuse of Power in Nature: Environmental Destruction -/- Example: Climate Change and Industrial Pollution Human industrial activity has disrupted the natural balance of the planet. Deforestation, excessive carbon emissions, and overconsumption of natural resources have led to global warming, species extinction, and ecological collapse. This is an example of humanity misusing its power over nature without considering the consequences. -/- The Ethical Use of Power -/- Power itself is neither good nor bad—it depends on how it is used. Ethical power aligns with justice, wisdom, and balance, while unethical power leads to corruption and destruction. -/- Principles of Ethical Power Use: -/- 1. Responsibility: Those in power must act for the common good rather than personal gain. -/- 2. Transparency: Power should be exercised openly, with accountability to the people it affects. -/- 3. Balance: Power must be used in a way that sustains long-term harmony rather than creating instability. -/- Conclusion -/- Power is a complex and dynamic force that can lead to progress or destruction, depending on how it is used. History provides countless examples of both ethical and unethical power, showing that unchecked power leads to oppression, injustice, and suffering. -/- The universal law of balance in nature teaches that any misuse of power will eventually lead to consequences. Therefore, the wisest approach to power is to use it ethically, responsibly, and in alignment with natural equilibrium. -/- . (shrink)

Increasing life expectancy may explain why more elderly candidates appear to be running for office. This raises general questions regarding the specific risks of old age and frailty in demanding political positions. Therefore, I tried to give important contemporary examples of elderly leaders, study the mean age of leading political figures over the last 3 decades and present historical examples of heads of state with age-associated brain diseases and cognitive deficits. I reviewed the literature on mental illness and politics and (...) analyzed the ages of international political leaders in 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020. Summary: There are several impressive contemporary examples of elderly politicians. The mean age of political leaders has not increased significantly in most parts of the world over the last 3 decades with the exception of the Gulf States and sub-Saharan Africa. Health problems of heads of state in earlier centuries had not been primarily age associated. After 1900, dementia but also mild cognitive and mild behavioral impairment became important issues in politically critical situations, for example international peace negotiations, the rise of Nazi Germany, the breakup of communism, the Arab Spring and others. This paper collects anecdotal evidence of cognitive frailty in ageing politicians; it is not an in-depth analysis of political history. Observations confirm that a very long time in power may obviously increase the risk of age-associated problems; dynamic revolutionary or entrepreneurial idols may be misled to rely on their irreplaceable charisma for too long. However, caution must be exercised against ageism on one side versus silent acquiescence towards leaders with failing mental powers on the other, who may become victims of obscure parties and their decompensating personality disorders. Current news nurture the impression that large and important states are governed by elderly people, and oc- casional reports indicate that there is a number of lesser known countries ruled by rather seasoned leaders. (shrink)

Elected Positions vs. Government Jobs: Understanding the Difference and the Role of Absolute Term Limits -/- Government institutions consist of individuals serving in various roles, either as elected officials or career civil servants. However, there is often confusion about whether political positions, such as the presidency, should be considered jobs in the same way as private-sector employment. Additionally, many individuals are drawn to politics rather than private-sector careers due to its influence, benefits, and long-term security. This essay explores the differences (...) between elected positions and traditional government jobs, the reasons politicians receive salaries despite not having traditional employment, the importance of absolute term limits in preventing lifetime political careers, and why many people prefer politics over private-sector jobs. -/- The Nature of the Presidency: Public Service, Not a Job -/- A presidency, or any other elected position, is not a job in the traditional sense. In private companies, jobs involve applying, being hired based on qualifications, and working under an employer for a salary. In contrast, a president is chosen through an election, not a hiring process. The position has a fixed term (e.g., four or six years), and re-election is required to continue in office. Unlike a private job, which can be long-term or even lifelong, an absolute term limit ensures that a president cannot serve indefinitely. -/- One of the most common questions is why presidents receive a salary if their role is not considered a job. The answer lies in the nature of public service. Presidents are given a salary to compensate for full-time responsibilities, prevent corruption, and ensure that the position is accessible to individuals from all backgrounds. However, this salary does not make the role a job—it remains an elected duty to serve the country rather than a career path. -/- Elected vs. Hired Positions in Government -/- Beyond the presidency, various government positions exist, which can generally be divided into elected positions and hired government jobs. -/- 1. Elected Positions (Public Office) -/- Includes roles like President, Vice President, Senators, Congressmen, Governors, and Mayors. -/- Individuals in these positions are not hired but instead chosen through elections by the people. -/- Their tenure is limited by law, and they must either be re-elected or step down after their term. -/- Their primary duty is to create and implement policies, pass laws, and lead government functions. -/- Absolute term limits prevent them from staying in power for extended periods, ensuring leadership rotation. -/- 2. Hired Government Jobs (Civil Service) -/- Includes teachers, police officers, clerks, engineers, government doctors, and other public servants. -/- Individuals in these roles are hired through a formal process based on qualifications, exams, and experience. -/- They work under civil service rules and are subject to government employment laws. -/- They have job security, benefits, and the possibility of career advancement. -/- Unlike elected officials, these government employees can stay in their positions long-term as long as they meet performance standards. -/- The key difference is that elected officials serve for a limited time and must leave office, while hired government employees can build lifelong careers in public service. -/- The Importance of Absolute Term Limits in Political Positions -/- A crucial factor that differentiates political positions from private-sector jobs is absolute term limits, which completely prevent politicians from holding the same position indefinitely. This contrasts sharply with private jobs, where employees can remain in a company for decades or even a lifetime. The importance of absolute term limits includes: -/- 1. Eliminating Lifetime Political Careers – In the private sector, individuals can build long-term careers and continue working as long as they are productive. However, in politics, absolute term limits prevent individuals from staying in power for extended periods, ensuring leadership change. -/- 2. Preventing the Accumulation of Too Much Power – When politicians remain in office for too long, they gain excessive control, leading to authoritarianism. Absolute term limits ensure that no single leader or party dominates indefinitely. -/- 3. Encouraging New Leadership and Innovation – Unlike private companies that allow employees to grow within the organization, political leadership must constantly evolve. Absolute term limits ensure that fresh leaders with new ideas and perspectives regularly take over. -/- 4. Reducing Corruption and Political Entitlement – In private companies, performance determines job security. In politics, however, long-serving officials often manipulate power structures to stay in office. Absolute term limits reduce this risk by ensuring they cannot stay beyond their term. -/- 5. Ensuring Fair Political Competition – In the private sector, individuals can work their way up over time. In contrast, politics must remain open to new candidates. Absolute term limits prevent one person from monopolizing opportunities, allowing others to compete fairly. -/- 6. Aligning with Democratic Principles – Democracy is based on fair elections and leadership change. While private companies focus on stability and expertise, politics thrives on rotation of leaders to reflect the will of the people. -/- Absolute term limits prevent politics from functioning like private companies, where employees can build lifelong careers. Instead, they ensure that political power remains temporary, maintaining accountability and preventing individuals from treating political office as permanent employment. -/- Why Many People Choose Politics Over Private Jobs -/- Despite term limits, many individuals still prefer politics over private jobs due to the influence, prestige, and financial benefits it offers. Some key reasons include: -/- 1. Power and Influence – Politics provides decision-making authority over national and international matters, unlike private jobs, where influence is limited to business operations. -/- 2. Financial and Social Benefits – While private-sector jobs offer salaries, political positions often come with privileges, retirement benefits, and lifelong recognition. -/- 3. Networking and Connections – Politics grants access to high-level business, political, and international connections, leading to long-term opportunities even after leaving office. -/- 4. Opportunity for Leadership and Legacy – Unlike corporate jobs, where employees work under executives, politicians have a chance to become national leaders and leave a lasting impact. -/- 5. Less Performance-Based Pressure – In private companies, employees must meet performance targets. In politics, public image and alliances often matter more than measurable results. -/- 6. Access to Power Without Special Skills – Unlike private-sector jobs that require technical skills and expertise, political success depends more on charisma, public appeal, and strategic alliances. -/- Why the Distinction Matters -/- Understanding the difference between elected positions and traditional employment is essential for maintaining democratic systems. In private companies, long-term careers are encouraged to build expertise and stability. However, in politics, absolute term limits ensure that no one stays in power indefinitely, preventing dictatorship and keeping leadership accountable. -/- Conclusion -/- While all government positions contribute to the functioning of a country, elected officials and government employees belong to different categories. Elected officials serve temporarily with absolute term limits, preventing them from staying in office indefinitely, unlike private-sector employees who can build lifelong careers in a company. -/- Despite these term limits, many people are drawn to politics because of power, influence, financial benefits, and leadership opportunities. However, absolute term limits remain crucial in preventing politics from becoming a permanent career path. They protect democracy, ensure leadership rotation, and prevent the concentration of power, ensuring that political service remains a temporary duty rather than a lifetime position. -/- . (shrink)

The paper provides a historical take on Filipino populism particularly former President Rodrigo Duterte’s leadership. The study contends that Duterte’s populism relies on his charisma as a strongman, where he frames his image as the father of the nation. The study relates this to Filipino philosopher Leonardo Mercado’s concept of sakop. This notion is best seen in the Filipinos’ harmonization of familial relations into other areas of society.

This essay developed out of the final chapter of The Sympathy of Things where I related beauty to a notion of radical generosity. Tracing generosity back to the ancient Greeks brought me to a whole new world of grace and “charis”, the etymological root of words like charisma and charity. The essay establishes a fundamental connection between grace and beauty, deeply interrelating movement and object. In the second part the argument develops into an ontology based on the concept of (...) radiance, which we encounter in Aglaia, the first of the Three Graces, in fireworks, jewelry, makeup and in fashion, but also in acts of bravery, kindness and friendship. Radiance is subsequently defined as “thickened appearance”, where phenomenology and ontology become continuous in a “presence beyond the present”. (shrink)

There are many phenomena where politicians try to perpetuate their power through political dynasties, especially in local government. This is worrying, considering that the abuse of power will be easier with the political elite consisting of their own families. This research will then look at how political dynasties can occur in the Indonesian government system. This research will be carried out using a descriptive qualitative approach. The data used in this research was obtained through the literature study method. The results (...) of this research then found that several factors cause political dynasties to occur in Indonesia. The first factor is Indonesian society which is plural, so individual political behavior is strongly influenced by social, economic, psychological, historical, political, and cultural factors. Another factor is that candidates who have charisma and popularity will provide great opportunities and make it easier for other family members to run for office in society. (shrink)

Women have always been central concerning the provision of healthcare. The transitions into the modern world have been very slow for women because of how societies classify women. Starting from lay care, women provided healthcare for their family and sometimes to the members of the community in which they lived. With no formal education, women served as midwives and served in other specialised fields in medicine. They usually treated their fellow women because they saw ‘women’s medicine’ as women’s business. They (...) were discriminated against by the opposite sex and by the church, which regarded it as a taboo to allow women to practice medicine. This study points to a Ghanaian context on how the charismas of women have made them excel in their efforts to provide healthcare for their people. The study also focused on the role of indigenous practitioners who are mostly found in the rural areas and modern practitioners who are mostly found in the peri-urban, urban areas and larger cities in Ghana. (shrink)

At its founding and during its first three decades, the Carthusian order developed a distinctive and forceful concept of communication among the members and between the members and the extramural world.2 Saint Bruno’s life, contemporary twelfth-century exegesis, and the physical situation of La Grande Chartreuse established the necessary context in which this concept evolved. A review of historical background, the relevant documentary texts, and early development demonstrate the shaping of two steps in this concept. Close reading of the principal testimonies (...) of Carthusians Bruno, Guigo I, Guigo II, and some other witnesses, as well as of some passages in Saint Augustine, argues that Carthusian scribal work was more preliminary practice for spiritual development than it was the sacralization of codices and texts. The two-step structure, composed of contrary movements of presentation and effacement, guarded what the Carthusians regarded as spiritual activity within a changing historical environment and became a fundamental part of Latin Christian mysticism in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. (shrink)