What Hangs in the Balance

The actions or inactions of elected and appointed leaders determine whether the people they serve flourish or suffer. What hangs in the balance is not just quality of life, but often life itself. Unprincipled and unethical leadership puts at risk mission accomplishment, good governance, public trust in democratic institutions, national security, and even the rule of law. Over the course of Philippe Johnson’s twenty-four-year career as a United States Air Force officer, he learned to appreciate how flawed and ineffective leaders can still provide valuable lessons for all of us. His thorough and candid analysis of Donald Trump’s social media posts and conduct as president—and how they were an aberration in both style and substance—sets a foundation for leaders to embrace and implement myriad leadership traits and competencies required for success in public and private sector organizations. Rather than criticizing specific policies, Johnson’s analysis focuses on leadership evaluation and practical imperatives for embracing each of the competencies. Including insights from contributing subject matter experts and the wisdom of contemporary and historical luminaries, Johnson provides a fascinating and sobering leadership critique in which readers will: Discover why character traits such as humility, empathy, respect for dignity, and self-control matter in every arena and bolster crucial leadership competencies. Appreciate how one’s fundamental leadership responsibilities promote core values and defend democratic principles and institutions. Take away positive examples of seeking counsel and expertise that support sound decision-making. Understand how trust and accountability are fostered through disciplined and ethical behavior. Experience and benefit from real-world examples of what not-to-do while also being inspired by recent examples of courageously selfless leadership. Differentiate between principled and unprincipled loyalty while countering undue influence and abuse of authority. Experience behaviors associated with three personality disorders that undermine selfless leadership and create toxic workplaces. A nation’s citizens need and deserve exceptional leadership. By providing guidelines for principled, ethical, competent, and courageously selfless leadership, What Hangs in the Balance leaves readers well poised and inspired to positively and profoundly impact the lives of those they serve.