The Wrong People at the Top
Power. What is it? Political theorist Robert Dahl gave one example. He said, “A has power over B to the extent that he can get B to do something that he would not otherwise do.” Why is it that often that those who are on top are the wrong people? The high rollers and the nabobs lust for power behind a smokescreen of homilies about doing good. Today, more and more power is concentrated in the hands of the few, thus weakening democracy. Who wields it? How is it allocated? What are effective ways to ensure power is not abused and serves the societal greater good? How can we organize and protect ourselves from those seeking personal power and profit? How can we get the right people on top?
Speaker
Brian Klaas
Political scientist Brian Klaas researches the emergence of corrupt leaders. He is an Associate Professor of Global Politics at the University College London and a contributing writer at The Atlantic. His most recent book is Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us.
Nedda –
This is a “must hear” for everyone interested in understanding what’s wrong not only with the US political system, but planet-wide politics, and what can be done to change it.”
Kim McMann –
For the first time in a very long time I actually have hope. We CAN fix the broken systems and this podcast explains thoroughly how to do so.
Jeff Baum –
So pertinent and smart, and I have so many questions!