Dumb or wise management

The ruler can surround himself with fools or wisdom.

IF YOU MANAGE, SURROUNDED BY FOOLS:

It is true

1. ·         that fools will agree with the ruler;
2. ·         make him feel greater than he is;
3. ·         the ruler will always have to be wary of “friends” who wants his “crown”;
4. ·         they will ensure he gets only positive news;
5. ·         they will lie to him regarding bad news;
6. ·         they will ensure fiscal decay;
7. ·         they will kowtow to the ruler to receive the gifts he may spread to his underlings;
8. ·         they are aware of the dangers to cross the ruler;
9. ·         they are aware that the ruler will protect them when they lie or steal;
10. ·         that they will damage your time of ruling in history;

IF YOU MANAGE, SURROUNDED BY WISDOM:

It is true

1. ·         that you will be given well thought out advice;
2. ·         that your advisors will not always agree with you;
3. ·         that wise advisors will feel part of your statesmanship;
4. ·         will ensure honest, ethical and wise governance;
5. ·         will guide you with well-planned operations procedures;
6. ·         will not steal from the coffers of government;
7. ·         will ensure that your rule is with comfort because all is going smoothly;
8. ·         will ensure fiscal growth;
9. ·         the ruler will have the peace of a loyal following;
10. ·         that you will fondly be remembered in history.

Looking at these two choices I cannot but wonder what is so difficult about this decision? Maybe the time has arrived again to read the 2000 year old book, The Art of War by Sun Tsu.