Power silences dissent. But uncontested decisions are weak. People nod when they disagree to put food on their table until organizational cupboards are bare. That’s what happened to Ford Motor Company a few years ago.
“The first rule in decision-making is that one does not make a decision unless there is disagreement.” Peter Drucker
The power of the weak:
The weak have power. The weak become like bawling toddlers in the candy aisle (after the person in charge says no). If they scream loud enough, they will get some sweets just to shut them up. In politics and business the weak disrupt.
Two years ago, the media was concerned the radical left would hogtie the President. More recently, brows are wrinkled over the radical right. Will the Speaker of the House be able to govern? The media lives for controversy. It isn’t concerned. If there isn’t a controversy one must be drummed up so we’ll tune in. Thank goodness for the disgruntled weak.
The power of the weak is their ability to mess up the agenda of the strong. They drag their feet until someone pays attention. If foot dragging doesn’t work, they scream. If screaming doesn’t work, they throw things. The strong will pay attention.
Power wants weakness to shut-up and eat broccoli. But the media wants the weak to speak up and I do too. Power makes people stupid.
Smart leaders invite dissent. They don’t silence it. They learn from it. It’s a mirage when people shut-up and do as they’re told. We are all stronger when the weak have a voice, even when they don’t get everything they want.
The 13 Principles of Disagreement
3 People to Throw Off the Team
How do leaders invite dissent without creating quagmire?
