This quote highlights the potential dangers of appointing individuals who are deemed ‘worthless’ or incompetent to positions of power and influence, particularly in matters of great importance. The term ‘worthless’ here can be understood as someone lacking the necessary skills, knowledge, or moral integrity to make sound decisions. Aristotle suggests that such individuals can cause significant harm due to their inability to handle the responsibilities that come with their positions.
The damage can be manifold. It could be in the form of poor decisions leading to disastrous outcomes, corruption, or even the erosion of trust in the system or organization they represent. This is because the actions and decisions of those in power can have far-reaching impacts on many people, particularly when the affairs they are managing are ‘weighty’ or significant.
Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see its relevance in various fields, from politics and business to education and healthcare. For example, in politics, if a leader is chosen based on popularity rather than competence, they may lack the skills to make wise policy decisions, leading to negative consequences for the country. In a business context, if a CEO lacks the necessary knowledge or experience, it could lead to poor strategic decisions, affecting the company’s success and employees’ livelihoods.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder of the importance of self-improvement and continuous learning. It emphasizes the need to strive for competence and worthiness, particularly if one aspires to take on roles of significant responsibility. It also highlights the potential consequences of overconfidence or complacency, reminding us to always be aware of our limitations and work towards overcoming them.
In essence, Aristotle’s quote is a timeless reminder of the importance of competence and integrity in positions of power, and the potential consequences when these qualities are lacking.