Lessons from great leaders series

What sets apart individuals we admire? Can we uncover valuable lessons from the character and achievements of historical figures to guide modern organizational management? Whether you’re a multinational corporation’s president or a local charity event organizer, this exploration offers personal inspiration and practical tools for fostering sustainable growth. In this series, each article delves into three readily available works on a historic life, with a focus on a particular issue relevant today.

Publication: “My Own Words” by Ruth Bader Ginsburg (2016)

Intellectual Integrity: Ginsburg’s writings emphasize the importance of intellectual integrity. Even when dissenting, she maintained a respectful and well-reasoned approach, promoting dialogue rather than hostility.

Civility in Discourse: Her ability to engage in civil and respectful discourse with colleagues, even when they held opposing views, serves as a lesson for promoting camaraderie while in opposition. Constructive dialogue can lead to better understanding and compromise.

Empathy: Ginsburg’s empathy for those affected by her decisions and her ability to relate to their struggles demonstrate how powerful her approach was in fostering respect, even in the face of ideological differences.

Publication: “Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg” by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik (2015)

Iconic Dissent: Ginsburg’s dissenting opinions themselves became historic, demonstrating that opposing views can have a lasting impact when expressed thoughtfully and with conviction. She taught us how powerfully respectful dissent can influence the turn of the future.

Fighting for Justice: Ginsburg’s life story is a testament to her lifelong fight for justice and equality. Her unwavering commitment to these principles serves as an inspiration for promoting respect for opposing viewpoints while advocating for what one believes is just.

Collaboration: The book showcases her ability to collaborate with colleagues with whom she had ideological differences. It underscores the value of finding common ground and working together constructively, even in opposition.

Publication: “Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life” by Jane Sherron De Hart (2018)

Tenacity and Resilience: Ginsburg’s life was marked by tenacity and resilience in the face of challenges. Her determination to overcome obstacles serves as a lesson in how we can maintain respect for others while persevering in the pursuit of our goals.

Respect for the Rule of Law: Her commitment to upholding the rule of law, even when disagreeing with its application, underscores the importance institutions that underpin civil society.

Building Relationships: The biography delves into Ginsburg’s ability to build meaningful relationships across ideological lines. Her friendships with colleagues who held opposing views demonstrate the power of personal connections in fostering camaraderie despite differences.

These publications on Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s life provide valuable insights into promoting respect and camaraderie while in opposition. Key lessons include intellectual integrity, civility in discourse, empathy, the impact of dissent expressed thoughtfully, fighting for justice, collaboration, tenacity, respect for the rule of law, and the value of building relationships across ideological lines. Ginsburg’s legacy illustrates the potential for respectful engagement even in contentious circumstances.