We owe our children – the most vulnerable citizens in any society – a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
A good leader can engage in a debate frankly and thoroughly, knowing that at the end he and the other side must be closer, and thus emerge stronger. You don't have that idea when you are arrogant, superficial, and uninformed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Good leaders embrace open debates to grow and strengthen their perspectives, while arrogance hinders understanding.
This quote by Nelson Mandela emphasizes the importance of open and honest dialogue in leadership. True leaders engage in discussions that challenge their views, understanding that such debates lead to growth, stronger relationships, and better decisions. In contrast, arrogance and superficiality prevent leaders from gaining insight, thereby limiting their effectiveness and influence.
Themes
LeadershipDebateGrowthUnderstandingArrogance
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about teamwork and collaboration, you might use this quote to highlight the importance of constructive debates.
More from Nelson Mandela
All quotes →What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
Nelson MandelaRead
The past is a rich resource on which we can draw in order to make decisions for the future, but it does not dictate our choices. We should look back at the past and select what is good, and leave behind what is bad.
Nelson MandelaRead
We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.
Nelson MandelaRead
After one has been in prison, it is the small things that one appreciates: being able to take a walk whenever one wants, going into a shop and buying a newspaper, speaking or choosing to remain silent. The simple act of being able to control one's person.
Nelson MandelaRead
I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
Nelson MandelaRead
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