The Soul of a Leader
Character, Conviction and Ten Lessons in Political Greatness

By Waller R. Newell

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In The Soul of a Leader, political scientist and cultural commentator Waller R. Newell offers a fascinating perspective on the role of leadership in American life today. From the birth of democracy in Periclean Athens to the Founding Fathers' view of statesmanship, from the experiences of Abraham Lincoln to those of modern presidents, this far-reaching and provocative new book explores the many and diverse elements of good statesmanship, including the timeless qualities all good leaders share. As Newell plumbs the depths of history, he illuminates the moral, psychological, and intellectual resources we inherit from the traditions of the West—traditions steeped in the experience and reflection on statecraft from ancient times onward—and offers a compass for the challenges America's next generation of leaders will face.

In this engaging blend of character portraiture, historical perspective, and contemporary political insight, Newell proposes a bold new perspective on the evolution of the modern American presidency, from Franklin Roosevelt to George W. Bush. He steps back in time to evaluate the clashing models of Lincoln and Robert E. Lee, as they captured the struggle for the soul of the American Republic. And, in an essay of masterful historical reach, he contemplates the roots of modern leadership in the story of what he calls “the West's first superpower conflict”—the epic battle between Athens and Sparta, with its echoes of both Vietnam and Iraq. Finally, he draws from these stories ten lessons in political greatness—lessons the next American president will be wise to heed.

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Reviews

“The Soul of a Leader is an important book that probes deeply into the question of what makes for greatness among democratic statesmen. Turning for inspiration to sources from Lincoln to Pericles, Newell understands the present through the lens of politics, philosophy, and history.”

Francis Fukuyama

“Waller Newell's fine book shows the love of honor at work in democratic times, when honor is disguised, diminished or eclipsed. Yet where is greatness without honor, and who can live without some share of greatness?”

Harvey Mansfield
Professor of Government
Harvard University

“A lively and enthusiastic application of classical political theory to the practical problems of political leadership.”

David Frum

“This book is a well-written and imaginative study of an immensely important and elusive subject, and represents years of diligent and original scholarly research and contemplation by a distinguished academic. It is a useful, as well as a very interesting read.”

Conrad (Lord) Black
Biographer of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Richard M. Nixon

“Waller Newell writes at a moment in history when a new generation, brimming with equal measures of hope, lofty ambition to change the world, and inexperience, is assuming power in America. Newell gives that generation, and even Obama himself, a book of wisdom about the eternal questions that a great leader must face as he rides the energies he has released in a world that does not always welcome democracy. It is a book about how a great leader can keep a democratic nation united in a time of war; when to go to war and when not to; when to be flexible and when to hold fast. . . . A book with many treasures.”

Norman Doidge
Author of The Brain That Changes Itself

“Waller Newell is passionately absorbed by American politics—and very amused by it. This combination of tastes propels his exciting new book, giving it unique verve and piquancy. Newell is the only writer who can make pop culture and Roman history highlight the leadership dilemmas of the next Administration. His enormous learning lightens the narrative rather than weighing on it. There is much originality here, particularly in spotting the role of the ‘celebritariat,’ a term he coined for the new revolutionary class. While provoking reflection—particularly on the strange fate of honor—Newell’s book will delight readers."

Charles H. Fairbanks, Jr.
Senior Fellow, Hudson Institute

“Waller Newell brings a unique combination of historical knowledge, narrative skill, intellectual depth and political shrewdness to his study of the qualities that make for a great leader. Written in captivating prose and brimming with memorable insights, The Soul of a Leader will be a valuable resource for leaders—and aspiring leaders—in any walk of life.”

Andrew Stark
Professor of Strategic Management
University of Toronto