When we are sick, we want an uncommon doctor; when we have a construction job to do, we want an uncommon engineer, and when we are at war, we want an uncommon general. It is only when we get into politics that we are satisfied with the common man.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People want experts in specific roles but settle for common leaders in politics.
- In plain terms
- We want experts for jobs but accept average leaders in politics.
- What can you take from it?
- We demand experts in crises but settle for average leaders in politics.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What traits should leaders have?
- Why settle for average in politics?
Another view
Politics sometimes values relatability over expertise.
More from Herbert Hoover
There are only two occasions when Americans respect privacy, especially in Presidents. Those are prayer and fishing.
Permalink to quote #63 Wisdom oft times consists of knowing what to do next.
Permalink to quote #65 Peace is not made at the council table or by treaties, but in the hearts of men.
Permalink to quote #62
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