POLITICAL LEADERSHIP AND DIGNITY

Abstract

In the conceptual framework of the theory of politics the author has defined dignity as the inherent quality that allows for political entities to exist and be treated in accordance with its nature (its identity, character or function), which may manifest themselves differently depending on their skills, capabilities, action plans or intentions, respectively of determinants of political time and contextual limits for carriers dignity. In the political sphere dignity is given by definition (through a series of rights), but in this way is not fully achieved, it's just a potential that political actors – leaders – must build and conquer primarily with conscious and teleological activity. Hence it was also noted that the way in which political leader shows, manifest and preserves the dignity expresses broader principles on which he or she work, as well as that the principles of respect for dignity is closely connected with the principles of legitimacy. It was concluded that the dignity expresses the measure of freedom for political actors. However, respect for the principles of dignity among political leaders has its key constraint: a social and international political framework of its manifestations. Therefore, it can occur paradox: precisely the sacrifice of dignity as a measure of freedom can be a way to maintain the identity and create a foundation for future freedom. Skills to find the right measure of rigidity in the defense of dignity – and at the other side of the continuum clearly defined and never exceed the limits of humiliation – is characteristic of thoughtful and wise decisions, those that make subjective and the active component of what encompasses the area of social reality that we call politics.