Folly Of Leadership

The late distinguished American historian, Barbara Tuchman, noted that failed leadership is of four kinds, often in combination; Tyranny or Oppression, Excessive Ambition, Incompetence or Decadence, Folly or Perversity.

I am concerned only with the last, Folly or Perversity, which is the pursuit of policy contrary to the Nation's interest. Central to failed leadership is why holders of high office so often act contrary to the way reason points and enlightened self-interest suggest. Surveying the vast spectrum of our recorded past, Tuchman explored this paradox and identified Folly's hallmark: the self-destructive act carried out despite the availability of a recognised and feasible alternative.