There is an account about the time when the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, was involved in a civil court case. Reportedly, the judge asked him to state his profession, to which Mr. Wright replied that he was “ The World’s Greatest Architect”. When asked by the judge to explain how he could possibly make such a claim, Mr. Wright retorted, “Well, you honor, I am under oath”.

I have often wondered about the place of the charismatic personality in the world of architecture. Some might consider Mr. Wright’s ego commensurate with his talent, although it calls into question the usefulness of ego to the design process and to the goal of shaping our built environment. Certainly, as with all of the arts, there is a strong dose of ego involved. I have personally witnessed the success of some artists and architects over the years, simply due to their considerable ability to promote themselves. Often, there are other artists and architects who are equally talented who do not get the same recognition of their more vocal colleagues.

Some charismatic leaders adopt the philosophy of “my way or the highway”. What results is often a well executed project, with a homogeneous source of artistry. However, without a carefully considered transition plan, when the time comes for others to inherit the mantle of leadership, chaos often ensues. People begin to squabble and jockey for position, with politics and entrenchment becoming the norm. I can’t help but envisioning a farmer chasing a chicken around with a hatchet in hand. Leading up to the decapitation, there is a lot of squawking and feathers flying about, after which comes the bloodletting and the running in circles.

My point is that the strength, the talent, and the power of the leader does not live on, unless it is literally given away. Perhaps we become more powerful when the community is empowered, rather than trying to retain that power ourselves. I personally have more affinity for the model described by Lao Tzu:

“Superior leaders get things done with very little motion . . . . . They are catalysts. A leader is best when people barely know he exists.... But, of a good leader who talks little, when his work is done and his aim is fulfilled, they will say, "We did it ourselves”.