A Dealer In Hope A Dealer In Hope

"Leadership sounds wonderful - a shining star leading us out of misery and into the light. "Un chef est un marchand d'espérance," as Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have said: "A leader is a dealer in hope." By the way: we don't like so much to say "Führer" in Germany anymore, "Leader" sounds better."

"What should our leaders be like? Empathetic, of course, team players, inclusive, even-tempered, and committed to diversity. Under no circumstances toxic, choleric or anything like that. And no pressure! Yes, and our leaders should actively engage in political discussion, but they should say the right thing, always strike the right note. We are very sensitive about this. We know what's right. Every statement they make must be run through the PR department five times to ensure that no group feels offended."

"Anyone aspiring to a prominent position in Germany today, especially in politics, is expected to take vows of chastity and poverty as well. I won't reveal which of these vows I would have a problem with. Tucholsky is said to have said: "First of all, you shouldn't visit your opponent in bed." Today, things are different. People like to snoop under the covers, and even years later, racy private chat messages are dug up. We are hypersexualised and at the same time beyond prudish."

"And if someone has money, it's very suspicious. "Are you rich?" Under no circumstances should you answer "yes", you're expected to squirm and hedge: "I would classify myself a"

Leadership is portrayed as a provider of hope, with the idea that a leader offers optimism and direction. Leaders are expected to be empathetic, inclusive, even-tempered, and committed to diversity, while avoiding toxic behavior. Political engagement is also expected, with every statement carefully managed to prevent offending any group. The piece contrasts these ideals with well-known entrepreneurs described as demanding, choleric, perfectionist, controlling, or emotionally weak. It also describes social expectations in Germany for prominent roles, including vows of chastity and poverty. Private behavior is treated as subject to scrutiny, and wealth is viewed with suspicion, requiring evasive answers.

Read at Sleek Magazine