Questioning Leadership

[October 30, 2025] An American tradition, one that has historically distinguished the citizens of the United States from their European ancestors, is questioning their leadership. It is not a sign of disrespect but rather a sign of healthy debate about right versus wrong. 

Political, military, and business leaders are scrutinized for their decisions and personal conduct. I suggest that questioning leadership fosters leaders who are more resilient and adaptable, but more importantly, it cultivates greater ethics.

“Cowardice asks the question, ‘Is it safe?’ Expediency asks the question, ‘Is it politic?’ But conscience asks the question, “Is it right?’ And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular but because conscience tells one its right.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

People want their leaders to be skilled at leading and to be good people. We will always encounter naysayers and narcissists who can’t be satisfied with any leader; questioning leaders for selfish reasons. However, those who value leadership and understand its importance unintentionally make those leaders better and more transparent in their decision-making, while also gaining insight into the complexities of open leadership. 

The numerous individual actions of those who question leaders collectively influence the ethical and moral foundation of their leadership.

I’ve found that leaders often fail to tell us how they came to a decision. The how – the process – is important because it can tell us about the core values held by that leader. It can tell us about who that leader has surrounded himself with and whether they are truly good and ethical as well. 

Processes can be compromised by biased influences, greed, and ignorance. When people question their leaders, this decision-making process can become more transparent so that everyone understands how decisions are made. Some information must remain confidential, but the methodology of the process can often be shared.

“The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.” – Kenneth Blanchard

Questioning leadership makes it harder for leaders to lead, and that is okay. The 18th-century model of closed-loop leadership is outdated for today’s modern societies. Old leadership models rely on authority, while new leadership relies on influence. Only by questioning our leaders can we ensure that their leadership is rooted in the right values and that their influence is selfless and genuine ethical.

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Please read my books:

1. “55 Rules for a Good Life,” on Amazon (link here).
2. “Our Longest Year in Iraq,” on Amazon (link here).