The nature of leadership and the human qualities that promote or obstruct leadership have a long history in Western thought and remain a central concern in modern societies. Crises in leadership may arise from human failings or social complexities that defeat or reject those most qualified to lead. David Cawthon examines classical thinkers to offer a historical and philosophical perspective on the intrinsic qualities of leadership, and how these qualities are coded into the souls of some, but not others.

Cawthon begins by tracing the ancient roots of the inquiry into character and...