Truth is most important in correlation to leadership. After Vietnam, early in my profession, the U.S. military embarked on a reassessment and renaissance. It was crucial for a military shaken to its core to reevaluate cataclysmic mistakes. A return to fundamentals was implemented in military doctrine, history and philosophy taught in service schools at every level, rather than relying solely on technological advantage. Carl von Clausewitz’s On War figured prominently in these efforts and highlighted the necessity of truthfulness in leaders.
Two qualities are indispensable: first, an intellect that, even in the darkest hour, retains some glimmerings of the inner light which leads to truth; and second, the courage to follow this faint light wherever it may lead.
Carl von Clausewitz
Metaphors of light representing truth are ancient. But perennially truth is extremely difficult to reveal. Leaders constantly confront challenges that require critical analysis to make decisions based on truth. As a strategist, I cautioned staff that we were objective truth seekers, regardless of consequences, before presenting findings to commanders. This is loyal opposition. Outsiders often counsel leaders about truth. Some have the organization at heart; others have different agendas in mind. Leaders must determine truth armed only with information, intellect and judgment. Sometimes leaders are wrong, as is the human condition.
Nevertheless, the second part of Clausewitz’s quote is even more fraught in practice. I have seen many leaders that knew what was right but were unwilling or lacked moral courage to pursue it. Born out of human nature and emotion, there is fear of the majority, a desire to be liked, decisions based on what is best for the leader personally or professionally, or merely unwillingness to risk consequences of hard decisions measured in treasure or lives.
Recognizing and following the truth is critical for effective leadership that bears success and averts disaster. Leaders taught and armed with a moral code will possess wisdom and courage in times of great troubles. Only then can leaders move to the uplands of a common good.