Henry Kissinger: 'Most foreign policies that history has marked highly, in whatever country, have been originated by leaders who were opposed by experts.'

Most foreign policies that history has marked highly, in whatever country, have been originated by leaders who were opposed by experts.

In a world where expertise is highly valued, the quote by Henry Kissinger, "Most foreign policies that history has marked highly, in whatever country, have been originated by leaders who were opposed by experts," challenges our conventional wisdom and invites us to question the role of experts in shaping policies. At first glance, the quote suggests that effective foreign policies often arise from individuals who go against expert advice. It emphasizes the importance of leadership and intuition, implying that leaders with a vision and conviction can sometimes surpass the limitations of expert opinion. This thought-provoking idea not only highlights the potential fallibility of experts but also raises an interesting philosophical concept regarding the intersection of expertise and leadership.While experts are seen as possessing specialized knowledge and experience, their approach to foreign policy might be influenced by pragmatism, caution, and the fear of failure. On the other hand, visionary leaders operate in a realm of possibility, unburdened by the constraints of immediate practicality and able to take unconventional risks. The clash between expertise and leadership is reminiscent of the tension between reason and intuition or logic and creativity. Leaders who challenge the status quo and are willing to venture into uncharted territory often have a fresh perspective that enables them to see possibilities where others see obstacles.Yet, we cannot disregard the valuable contributions of experts either. They possess a wealth of knowledge, empirical evidence, and a deep understanding of historical precedents. Their role is rooted in policies based on analysis, risk mitigation, and anticipating potential outcomes. Experts are essential in informing leaders about the potential consequences and risks involved in their decisions.To further explore this philosophical concept, let us turn to the idea of the "creative outsider." Often, visionaries who disrupt the status quo or challenge established systems are considered outliers or even mavericks. Their ability to approach problems from unconventional angles allows them to see opportunities that others miss. This unconventional perspective can be compared to the concept of the "trickster" figure in mythology or folklore. The trickster is a character who bends and breaks the rules, challenging the established order and opening new possibilities. This archetype represents rebellion against the status quo and echoes the sentiments of leaders who oppose the advice of experts.The creative outsider challenges the notion that expertise is the ultimate authority. They navigate uncharted terrain, unfettered by existing frameworks, and have the audacity to pursue unorthodox paths. It is this audacity that can often lead to groundbreaking and effective foreign policies. However, it is important to strike a balance between the creativity of leadership and the invaluable expertise of those who have dedicated their lives to understanding complex geopolitical issues.In conclusion, Henry Kissinger's quote challenges our preconceived notions about the role of experts in shaping foreign policy. It suggests that visionary leaders who are willing to oppose the advice of experts can sometimes produce remarkable outcomes. This concept invites us to consider the value of unconventional thinking and the importance of striking a balance between leadership and expertise. It sparks a philosophical exploration of the intersection between reason and intuition, logic and creativity. Ultimately, it is the evolving dance between leaders and experts that shapes the course of history and determines the effectiveness of foreign policies.