(When) Do Leaders Matter?
Interview with Jared Diamond about his book Profits, Prophets, Coaches, and Kings: (When) Do Leaders Matter? Argues that few leaders are truly irreplaceable over the long run, with external factors like geography and environmental conditions often being more decisive than individual charisma – for example, the impact of weather on Genghis Khan’s success, or the lack of centralisation in Papua New Guinea. Explores leadership across politics, business, and sport, emphasising the need for a charismatic founder, an organiser, and a general in religious movements. Highlights the importance of direct, face-to-face communication for effective leadership and negotiation skills.
