Power corrupts all without an exception

Power corrupts all without an exception

Introduction

While some are of the opinion that power corrupts all absolutely, it would be more correct to say that while power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely. In any country across the world, systems such as democracy have mostly led to political stability across cultures. Those nations which are based on autocratic political systems or coteries invariably breed corruption. In fact, power corrupts when it has the ability to enamour you into losing human values such as compassion and integrity. Power hungry leaders can give up their beliefs and convictions in a bid to gain power. This can negative repercussions for the leader as well as the led.

Viewpoint

• At its very basic core, leadership is focused on power and influence. Power is the natural result of gaining leadership. It is the outcome of a hard fought election and the lobbying of the rich and famous. But power is also a root of great evil. It makes enemies into friends and allies into rivals. Power has the capacity to lure in a way akin to the snake charmer attracting the serpent. It is a dangerous game while it lasts. It is often short-lived for many leaders. Indian history is replete with political assassinations and unholy incidents that point to the all consuming ability of power to claim victims.

• Power has the ability to mould positive social change. It can make leaders into puppets as well. While powerful factions battle for the ability to influence the doings of whoever ascends the political throne in the upcoming elections, the question remains whether it is really worth the fuss it is creating. Does it matter who becomes the leader? All, without exception will no doubt succumb to the lure of riches and wealth. While some may argue that this is a generalization, the scams and scandals that have dotted Indian political history prove otherwise.

• Leaders often give and take political favours. Political bartering forms the root of any government formation in our country nowadays. Markets and the economy continue to hope that a stable government may form, but political compulsions often make leaders take up combinations that are bound to end in inaction.

• During Watergate, it was argued that President Nixon could not perform illegal actions as the leader of the country is above the law. No leader should be above the law if democracy has to succeed in its aim. But corruption has made it possible for all sorts of political coalitions which often do not serve the greater good. It is important to ensure accountability if we are to achieve zero corruption in India and demanding it of our leaders is no mean task. From scams to scandals, most of our political leaders have done it all. Some even have lengthy charge sheets and criminal records. In such a situation, it seems power has done more evil than good to the leader’s character as well as the integrity of the nation.

• Leaders can become drunk on power. It becomes difficult for them to see reality. Surrounded by coteries of loyal fan followers who praise their every move, political leaders can become targets of their own power and status.

• Very few leaders have the ability to set a good example and follow ethical principles. Unfortunately for our world, these remain in a minority.

Conclusion

Leaders can become victims of their own fame and power. Power is like a drug…it can intoxicate if given in plenty. While some may argue that a strong political leader can serve as a good example for others, it becomes quite a task to find even one good leader in the pack. With new alternatives emerging every day on the political scene, it becomes crucial to find leaders who can resist the siren call of money and power. It is extremely difficult to find an incorruptible leader in our world, and in the present century. Who knows if this will change in times to come?