"In a rational society we would want our presidents to be teachers. In our actual society we insist they be cheerleaders"

The quote by Steve Allen provides a thought-provoking commentary on the role and understanding of leadership in society, especially relating to the presidency. Allen contrasts a perfect, "logical" society with the reality he observes, highlighting a discrepancy in the characteristics and functions we value in our leaders.

In a reasonable society, according to Allen, the choice would be for presidents to serve as instructors. This suggests a society that values knowledge, wisdom, and the ability to inform and notify the general public. A president as an instructor would embody the qualities of enlightenment and assistance, promoting an informed citizenry capable of vital thinking and understanding complex social concerns. The teacher-leader would prioritize transparency, truths, and public understanding, assisting citizens browse the subtleties of governance and policy. Such a leader would be expected to lead by example, showing intellectual curiosity and a commitment to long-lasting learning, while also motivating these qualities in the populace.

Conversely, Allen keeps in mind that in the real society, we demand that our presidents be cheerleaders. This representation indicates a focus on interest, inspiration, and the ability to rally public assistance, frequently through emotional appeal instead of substantive discussion or evidence-based policymaking. A cheerleader-president may focus on producing a sense of unity and optimism, regardless of the underlying intricacies or difficulties at hand. This function is more about energizing the public and building a collective identity, often streamlining messages to make sure broad appeal and preserving spirits instead of promoting deep understanding.

Allen's observation can be interpreted as a critique of modern political culture, where design often takes precedence over substance. It challenges the audience to assess what qualities they truly value in their leaders and whether their expectations line up with the needs of informed and thoughtful governance. In essence, the quote calls for introspection on whether society values charming leadership and psychological engagement over instructional and intellectual empowerment. By emphasizing the significance of having leaders who educate rather than merely inspire, Allen welcomes a discourse on redefining the ideal leadership qualities to align more closely with the requirements of an informed and informed society.