A phenomenon noticeable throughout history regardless of place or period is the pursuit by governments of policies contrary to their own interests. Mankind, it seems, makes a poorer performance of government than of almost any other human activity. In this sphere, wisdom, which may be defined as the exercise of judgment acting on experience, common sense and available information, is less operative and more frustrated than it should be. Why do holders of high office so often act contrary to the way reason points and enlightened self-interest suggests? Why does intelligent mental process seem so often not to function?
Throughout history, it is evident that governments often implement policies that go against their own best interests. This pattern persists across various cultures and time periods, suggesting a fundamental flaw in human governance. Despite the wealth of experience and knowledge available, decision-makers frequently overlook wisdom, which entails making choices based on sound judgment and practical understanding. This raises questions about the effectiveness of intelligence in political leadership and the consistent disregard for rational self-interest.
The tendency for political leaders to act contrary to reason is puzzling; it indicates that intelligent thought processes may not be adequately utilized in governance. Tuchman’s observations suggest a disconnection between reasoning and policy-making, leading to decisions that can cause harm rather than benefit. This phenomenon invites further exploration into the dynamics of leadership and the complexities of human behavior in political contexts, highlighting the challenges of achieving true wisdom in government.