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About this quote

What does it mean?
A ruler should face constant risk of removal to keep them behaving properly.
In plain terms
Kings stay honest when they risk losing their heads.
What can you take from it?
Leaders need accountability to stay upright.

Where it applies

  • politics
  • management

Putting it to work

  • install checks and balances
  • monitor leaders

Questions to consider

  • How do you hold leaders accountable?
  • Is fear good for leaders?

Another view

Fear of removal can also paralyze leadership.

More from Robert A. Heinlein

  1. How we behave toward cats here below determines our status in heaven.

    Permalink to quote #171
  2. Premenstrual Syndrome: Just before their periods women behave the way men do all the time.

    Permalink to quote #173
  3. I usually read the obituaries first as there is always the happy chance that one of them will make my day.

    Permalink to quote #170

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