Scott Walker: 'I'd like now and into the future to play a bigger role not only in Wisconsin and the Midwest, but nationally. I'd like to have an impact.'

I'd like now and into the future to play a bigger role not only in Wisconsin and the Midwest, but nationally. I'd like to have an impact.

In the realm of politics, many leaders aspire to leave a lasting impact on their local communities, regions, and even the nation as a whole. Scott Walker, the former Governor of Wisconsin, expressed his desire to play a bigger role not just in his home state and the Midwest, but also on a national scale. This quote encapsulates Walker's ambition to make a significant and influential difference wherever his political journey may take him. While this aspiration is commendable, it also raises a deeper question about the nature of personal impact and how it can be measured.Walker's statement suggests a genuine interest in making a difference in the lives of people beyond the confines of Wisconsin. He acknowledges that his potential for impact extends beyond a single state or region. By expressing his desire for national influence, he reveals an aspiration for broader significance and a chance to contribute on a grander stage.Expanding on Walker's quote, it is worth exploring the concept of impact from the perspective of a philosophical concept known as consequentialism. Within consequentialist theories, the moral worth of an action is determined by its outcomes or consequences. The concept of impact aligns closely with consequentialism since it emphasizes the tangible effects and the lasting changes brought about by individuals.Interestingly, Walker's statement also invites a comparison with the opposing philosophical concept of existentialism. Existentialism focuses on the individual's existence, freedom, and responsibility to create meaning and purpose in their own lives. While impact is often perceived as an outward expression of influence on others, existentialism emphasizes personal agency and the intrinsic value of one's actions and choices.By juxtaposing the two philosophical concepts, we can delve deeper into the meaning and importance of impact. Is impact solely measured by external consequences and the scale of influence one has on others, or is there inherent value in the personal growth and self-fulfillment that comes from living a meaningful life?Walker's desire to have a national impact can be viewed through the lens of both consequentialism and existentialism. On one hand, his ambition aligns with the consequentialist perspective, seeking to make a substantive difference in the lives of a greater number of people. On the other hand, it also resonates with the existentialist notion of personal agency, the pursuit of a purposeful existence, and the desire to leave a lasting imprint.In the complex world of politics and leadership, the notion of impact is often tied to tangible achievements such as policy changes, economic growth, and societal progress. However, it is crucial to remember that impact can also manifest in less quantifiable ways, such as inspiring others, fostering dialogue, or advocating for important causes. These intangible impacts can sometimes be even more profound and enduring.Scott Walker's quote reflects an ambitious drive to have a significant influence well beyond his immediate surroundings. It underscores the human desire to leave a lasting mark and contribute to something larger than oneself. When considering the meaning and importance of impact, it becomes evident that it encompasses not only the scale of influence but also the deeper, personal realm of self-fulfillment and the pursuit of a purposeful existence.