Thucydides: 'It is frequently a misfortune to have very brilliant men in charge of affairs. They expect too much of ordinary men.'

It is frequently a misfortune to have very brilliant men in charge of affairs. They expect too much of ordinary men.

In his insightful quote, Thucydides highlights the paradoxical nature of having brilliant individuals in positions of power. He suggests that while brilliance may possess numerous virtues, it can also lead to an inherent expectation gap between extraordinary leaders and ordinary individuals. This expectation gap, stemming from the brilliance of those in charge, can result in disappointment and adversity when regular people struggle to meet the high standards set by their exceptional leaders.Thucydides' quote touches on a universal concept that is highly relevant even in modern-day governance and leadership. Brilliant individuals possess exceptional intellect, innovative thinking, and an elevated understanding of complex issues. These qualities often drive them to set ambitious goals and strive for remarkable achievements. Consequently, they expect those around them to similarly possess the same level of brilliance, the same capacity for insight and ingenuity.However, this expectation is where the dichotomy lies. Ordinary individuals, by definition, do not possess the same exceptional abilities as brilliant leaders. They may lack the same depth of knowledge, creative problem-solving skills, or exceptional understanding of complex matters. Therefore, when ordinary individuals are unable to meet the lofty expectations set by their brilliant leaders, disappointment, frustration, and potential failure may ensue.Here, an unexpected philosophical concept can provide an interesting twist to the discussion. One such concept is the idea of the Aristotelian "Golden Mean" – the philosophy of finding a balanced middle ground between extremes. The Golden Mean suggests that the optimal approach to leadership lies in the delicate equilibrium between the brilliance of exceptional leaders and the capabilities of ordinary individuals.Applying this concept to Thucydides' quote, one could argue that while having exceptionally bright individuals at the helm is desirable, it becomes crucial to bridge the expectation gap to avoid misfortune. Instead of expecting ordinary individuals to somehow match the brilliance of their leaders, a wiser approach would be to recognize and utilize the unique strengths and abilities each individual brings to the table.In practice, this means that brilliant leaders should be mindful of their expectations, ensuring they do not inadvertently create a stifling environment that overwhelms or discourages ordinary individuals. By acknowledging and valuing the diverse talents and perspectives of their team members, leaders can foster an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere that nurtures growth and collective problem-solving.Moreover, leaders must actively invest in the development and empowerment of their team members. By providing access to learning opportunities, mentorship programs, and resources, exceptional leaders can nurture ordinary individuals, enabling them to grow and maximize their potential. When both extraordinary and ordinary individuals are given the opportunity to contribute and thrive, a harmonious and productive dynamic emerges.In conclusion, Thucydides' quote serves as a powerful reminder that brilliance in leadership can be a double-edged sword. While it brings immense benefits, it can also create an expectation gap that ordinary individuals may struggle to meet. However, by embracing the concept of the Golden Mean and seeking a balanced approach to leadership, exceptional leaders can bridge this gap and strive towards a more inclusive and fulfilling environment. By recognizing and leveraging the unique strengths of every individual, regardless of their brilliance, the potential for success and greatness becomes truly boundless.