The Power in Staying Low"The rivers and seas lead the hundred streams because they are skilful at staying low. Thus they are able to lead the hundred streams."

"Therefore, to rise above people, one must, in speaking, stay below them. To remain in front of people, one must put oneself behind them."

"So it is that enlightened people remain above and yet the people are not weighted down. They remain in front and the people are not held back."

"Therefore the world willingly elects them and yet it does not reject them. Because they do not compete, the world cannot compete with them."

Enlightened leaders win the trust of the people by their complete identification with the people. The interests of the people are naturally promoted because they are the interests of the leader as well.

When it is clear in their words and actions that the leader does not feel superior to those whom they lead, the people see themselves in the leader and never tire of them. (66)

It is a feature of human nature that overbearing leaders are resisted and reviled - it seems to be a universal human reaction. The most effective leaders are those who actively avoid creating a perception of distance between themselves and those they lead. The me boss, you underling attitude.

It may be argued by some that conservative hierarchical societies, such as we see in England, are stable and effective and therefore good. Everyone knows their place in the pecking order, from the Queen down to the lowliest street-sweeper. Each class feels it is their birthright to command those classes below, and those below accept the authority of their betters . Unfortunately this cosy arrangement contains the seeds of its own destruction. Sooner or later, those below throw off the yolk. It might take hundreds of years, but ultimately it will happen because Nature will always bring affairs into harmony with itself.