In recent months, a notable phenomenon has emerged across various sectors—thought leaders from prestigious universities, professional athletics, corporations, the media, and political arenas have increasingly distanced themselves from a grounding in reality. This unsettling trend reveals not only a disconnect from the concrete challenges facing society but also an alarming tendency to prioritize ideology over fact in trade for power. Amid this backdrop, a compelling case for the virtue of prudence arises, emphasizing the need for a return to a balanced, reality-oriented approach in decision-making.The days of propaganda needs to end. Believe what you see not what you are told by the elite.
Prudence, as articulated by philosopher Josef Pieper, is described as the “foremost of the virtues.” It acts as the foundation that shapes and informs other virtues such as justice, fortitude, and temperance. Prudence is not merely a passive acknowledgment of reality; it entails a vigorous engagement with the present circumstances and a nuanced understanding of the consequences of one’s actions. In a landscape increasingly characterized by hyperbole and unchecked ambition, prudence serves as a crucial antidote, reminding us that effective leadership necessitates an ability to serve rather than be served, to discern, and act upon the realities of the world we inhabit based on Gods laws and reality.
The DEI ideology is most times a disconnect from reality. Its all kind of a don't believe what you see or experience, but believe what I tell you is really happening.This disconnection from reality can be observed in various domains. In academia, some leaders have adopted ideological stances that seem insulated from the empirical data and lived experiences that inform much of scholarly inquiry. In athletics, decisions made by coaches and organizations often reflect a myopic focus on genders other than physical males or females. They say gender is what you believe not what you see. Within the corporate and government sector, hires are made based on diversity and not qualifications causing a disruption in good products, customer service, employee retention and profits. Political discourse through the media has devolved into a battleground of partisan rhetoric, overshadowing the pressing issues that require cooperation based on reality and a shared commitment to societal welfare. All in trade for power and control.
The calls for a return to prudence, therefore, becomes imperative. The essence of prudence lies in a profound awareness of reality—what Josef Pieper terms the order of “what is.” This consciousness allows leaders to make informed decisions that not only consider immediate outcomes but also the broader implications for society. A prudent leader evaluates the context, engages with various perspectives, and remains open to adapting strategies based on evidence. Such a leader does not simply react to the pressures of the moment; instead, they thoughtfully navigate complexities with an eye toward sustainable progress.
In conclusion, the troubling trend of detachment from reality among influential figures underscores an urgent need for a revival of prudence. As Pieper asserts, prudence is the measure of other virtues; it bestows clarity and direction upon actions. In our contemporary context, embracing this virtue could redirect us toward constructive discourse, informed leadership, and ultimately, a more grounded approach to the complex challenges that define our time based on what is real. The pursuit of prudence in our shared leadership can lead not only to better decision-making but toward a society that values reality and reason above mere rhetoric and ambition.