Morning quote from columnist, David Brooks, in a column about self-
knowledge of leaders:
The central illusion of modern politics is that if only people as
virtuous as “us” had power, then things would be better. Candidates
get elected by telling people what they want to hear, leading them by
using the sugar of their own fantasies.
Somehow a leader conversant with his own failings wouldn’t be as
affected by the moral self-approval that afflicts most political
movements. He’d be detached from his most fervid followers and
merciful and understanding toward foes. He’d have a sense of his own
smallness in the sweep of events. He or she would contravene Lord
Acton’s dictum and grow sadder and wiser with more power.
All this suggests a maxim for us voters: Don’t only look to see which
candidate has the most talent. Look for the one most emotionally
gripped by his own failings.