Tend the Commons or Lose It All

A note to young leaders.

In an era increasingly defined by shrill calls for nations to pursue their self-interest above all else – we do well to reflect on this observation by Bertrand Russell:

“Nationalism consists essentially of the conviction that it is right to pursue one’s own nation’s interests, however they may conflict with those of others. … What should we think of an individual who proclaimed: I am morally and intellectually superior to all other individuals, and, because of this superiority, I have the right to ignore all interests except my own?”

We have a word for such people. Several in fact. None of them flattering. And yet this is the philosophy, now draped in flags, that’s offered to us as the solution to all our ills.

Whatever happened to the notion of “enlightened self-interest”? The recognition that acting in ways that benefit others ultimately serves our long-term interests, better than naked self-interest ever could.

Our wellbeing is inseparable from the wellbeing of our neighbours. The world is not a zero-sum game to be won. It is a commons to be tended.

Bite others, and they tend to bite back. Sow goodwill, and you will reap its harvests in unexpected hours and unanticipated places.

We ignore this truth at our own peril – and if you happen to be a superpower or a leader with power over others, at everyone else’s peril too.