The Value of Reading and the Absence of It in Leadership: Insights from Presidential Reading Habits

Reading is often seen as an essential tool for acquiring knowledge, critical thinking, and empathy. Leaders, in particular, benefit greatly from a well-rounded education and the knowledge gained from sustained reading. This article explores the benefits of reading and the implications of a president who may not prioritize reading, drawing insights from personal experiences and historical accounts.

The Role of Education in Personal and Professional Development

My father's journey exemplifies the transformative impact of education. Born into a nomadic tribe in Central Asia, his family's anti-literate culture initially steered him away from written knowledge. However, my father's early encounter with books and education changed his life profoundly. By the age of 18, he had already completed an associate degree in Chemistry and later pursued a teaching and divinity degree. This extensive educational path allowed him to become a respected Universalist and Unitarian Universalist minister and a prolific reader of diverse genres. Through his wealth of books, he immersed himself in a wide range of subjects, including history, philosophy, and culture, which greatly enriched his worldview and his impact on the world.

The Impact of Reading on Negotiation and Peace Building

My father's approach to conflict resolution and negotiation was rooted in understanding and empathy. He instilled in me the importance of studying war and conflict to better understand the complexities of peace and reconciliation. His curriculum, which included books by Sun Tzu and Clausewitz, as well as historical and political texts, equipped him and me with the tools necessary to navigate complex situations ethically and effectively.

The Case of Reading in Leadership: A Comparative Study

Donald Trump's presidential tenure brought to light the importance of reading and lifelong learning. Trump's tendency to avoid reading has been a subject of much debate and criticism. In contrast with my father's extensive reading and educational journey, Trump's lack of interest in reading has been reflected in his approach to governance, decision-making, and communication. Critics argue that this absence of reading could have significant implications for leadership, particularly in fostering a culture of respect for facts, critical thinking, and open-mindedness.

Gaslighting and the Impermeable Bubble of Ignorance

The concept of living in an impermeable bubble, where one is shielded from ideas and evidence that could challenge one's beliefs, is a common critique of those who avoid reading. This was particularly evident during Trump's presidency. The isolation from varied perspectives and knowledge can lead to cognitive biases and a lack of objectivity. This phenomenon is akin to gaslighting, where one’s understanding is manipulated to question reality. Trump's approach to information and decision-making often led to oversimplification, rhetoric, and misunderstanding of complex issues, which ultimately hampered effective governance.

The Challenges of Dyslexia and Alternative Paths to Success

Trump's dyslexia, if unaddressed, may have contributed to his tendency to avoid reading. Like my brother, who struggled with dyslexia and found success in a completely different field, Trump may have channelized his strengths and interests in a different career path. My brother, a dyslexic musician, excelled in crafting banjos and string instruments, transforming his unique challenges into a source of creativity and success. Similarly, Trump could have pursued alternative paths that leveraged his entrepreneurial skills and interpersonal strengths, rather than being held back by a lack of reading ability.

A Call for a More Balanced and Informed Leadership

The U.S. and the world would have benefited significantly if Trump had found a partner in his quest for knowledge and understanding. A more balanced and informed leader might have avoided impulsive decisions, fostered a more inclusive dialogue, and contributed to a more informed and empathetic society. The pursuit of knowledge, through reading and learning, is a vital component of responsible leadership and citizenship. By embracing reading and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, leaders can promote a more informed and enlightened society.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Reading is not just an individual pursuit; it is a fundamental aspect of leadership. Leaders who prioritize knowledge, critical thinking, and empathy are better equipped to navigate complex challenges and foster a more informed and peaceful society. For those like Trump, who may struggle with traditional reading, alternative avenues of learning and growth should be sought. This can include engaging with multimedia, podcasts, eBooks, or working with educators and mentors to navigate informational landscapes effectively.

As a society, we must advocate for a culture that embraces lifelong learning and values the importance of knowledge and understanding. By doing so, we can foster a more informed, empathetic, and compassionate leadership that serves the greater good.