Absolute Power Does Not Corrupt Leadership: A Critical Study of Thomas Hobbes’ Political Theory in Leviathan
- October 20, 2019
- Posted by: RSIS
- Categories: IJRISS, Social Science
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue X, October 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186
Callistus Kahale Kabindama
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa
AUTHORITY AND POWER IN LEADERSHIP
INTRODUCTION
This is chapter has outlined how we can use Hobbes’ political philosophy into today’s political world. The arguments given by Hobbes show their relevance even to the challenges and struggles of the politics exercised in the contemporary world. The use of power and authority by leaders today has come under much scrutiny and judgment. This is why the arguments of some scholars such as Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau can guide our search for a good leader. In this chapter we are going to explain how diversifying the use of power and authority can be a great benefit to the roles of governance and leadership. The use of power is to enforce the social contract; and authority is there because the social contract mandates a leader to be in office. Therefore, power and authority is equivalent to making sure the leader is effective in his or execution of state duties.
In addition, the concepts of power and authority cannot be exercised in the absence a society. There will be need for people to experience a reign of a sovereign when the contract is signed. This calls for the observance of the rule of law and respect of human rights. In this chapter, we are going to discuss on how a leader should be ready to apply the rule of law and respect of rights in his or her reign whilst executing the principles of authority and power. When a leader applies the rule of law he or she promotes justice, and when she or he respects human rights he or she dignifies humanity. This aspect leads us to have a good leader with qualities such empowering, leading, inspiring and sharing his or her vision with the citizens. The chapter ends with a critique highlighting how power a leader with power has control over the state of affairs.
