A new study reveals the complex mix of personality traits that propel politicians to power. Humor, charm, and raw courage rank among the most crucial characteristics for successful leaders, according to research by Bill Jones, Honorary Professor of Political Studies at Liverpool Hope University.
Jones analyzed biographies and interviewed key political figures to uncover what motivates individuals to pursue a career in politics. His findings, published in the book “‘Just Like Us’?: The Politics of Ministerial Promotion in UK Government,” offer insights into the strengths and frailties of those who occupy positions of power.
The Allure of Political Power
Jones argues that choosing a career in politics differs significantly from other professions. He explains: “Political activity is essentially about the winning and retaining of power to change the way other people live their lives. Some would say – and this is the dangerous bit given the vagaries of human nature – it is also about the acquisition of power for its own sake.”
While Jones describes politicians as “strange, special people” with a “near narcissistic interest in themselves,” he notes that most enter politics with noble intentions. “They genuinely believe they can ‘make a difference’ and fulfil an idealistic sense of service to the local or national community,” he says.
The research suggests that political success stems from a combination of traits. “So success in politics seems to be an admixture of driving ambition, narcissism, genuine idealism with, perhaps, a dash of daring and necessary ruthlessness,” Jones remarks.
Essential Skills for Political Success
Jones identified several key characteristics shared by successful politicians, including charm, optimism, academic ability, memory skills, and good decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of humor, noting: “We forgive people who make us laugh a great deal and it might be argued that Boris Johnson based his political style to a large extent on his ability to amuse voters: in amusing them he avoided making politics as deadly boring as a majority seem to think it is.”
Physical stamina and verbal prowess also play crucial roles. Jones explains: “I leave until last the most important quality of all – mastery of the spoken word – because without a high level of verbal skills, politics in the UK can never provide any kind of career for its ambitious participants.”
The study highlights the unique challenges faced by women and working-class MPs in navigating a male-dominated, privately educated political landscape. Jones notes: “It also has to be said that female MPs have to survive and try to prosper in a Commons culture that is more male based than receptive to females. Finally, MPs recruited from working-class backgrounds also find the Commons intimidating given the large percentage of privately educated MPs on the Conservative side plus the domination of those educated at Oxbridge and other universities.”
Despite sharing some common traits with the general public, Jones argues that politicians are fundamentally different. He explains: “They often seem to be addicted to or infected by a ‘politics bug’, which drives them to compete against fellow addicts for the limited places available at the very top of the nation’s political elite.”
The study also examines the various paths to becoming a minister and the limitations of the current system. Jones points out that British ministers often lack expertise in their assigned areas and face short tenures in each role. He suggests several reforms to improve ministerial quality, including removing the requirement for parliamentary membership and ending leadership elections by party members.
As political landscapes evolve, understanding the unique qualities that drive successful leaders becomes increasingly important. Jones’ research provides valuable insights into the complex personalities shaping our political future.
