https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXMKC447/
Author Interview The Sovereign Perspective
What inspired you to write The Sovereign Perspective?
Coming from a very old royal family, I
was raised to observe the world through the lens of seeking constructive ways
to promote the common good and achieve lasting results. Since I was 11 years
old, I have been deeply shocked by how many educated individuals can arrive at
conclusions and take actions that are utterly stupid. By “stupid,” I mean to
refer to Bonhoeffer’s definition—not simply a lack of intelligence or
knowledge, but a “mental block” that leads us to reject or ignore common sense,
logic, facts, and expertise. Throughout my life, I have been unconsciously
striving to refine and perfect my critical thinking. It's not an easy task and
requires constant effort. One of my masters used to say that our minds are like
horses; if we do not consistently train them, they will eventually refuse to
accept our direction. If we do not remain vigilant and aware, any of us can
fall into stupid thinking, regardless of our intelligence or education. I felt
compelled to write this book after years of passionately teaching the concept
of the “Sovereign Perspective.” I firmly believe that this powerful framework
can guide humanity on a path toward avoiding the mistakes of our past and
forging a brighter future.
In your book, you talk about unity and division. Why is
this issue so important to you?
Because the main reason we face a
significant number of problems in our world today is our tendency to foster
division. While disagreeing is healthy and necessary, it must be done
constructively. We have created a constant, binary, Manichean, triumphalist
narrative of "us against them," portraying others as the problem that
must be eliminated. This mentality only breeds violence and destruction.
Currently, opinions often manifest as emotional, irrational reactions driven by
ideology, passion, or aversion, rather than being based on a careful analysis
of facts and evidence guided by common sense. This growing division is making
the world increasingly stupid. Looking back at history, we can see that such
divisions always lead to destruction.
What exactly is the "sovereign perspective,"
and how does it work in everyday life?
When reflecting on Plato’s vision of
the philosopher-king, Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and the “Anti-Machiavel” of Prussian King Frederick
the Great, we arrive at a profound understanding of the sovereign
perspective—the ideal way a ruler should think and act. A “perfect ruler”
embodies qualities of impartiality, justice, and constructive leadership,
placing the welfare of every subject above all else, regardless of their
ethnicity, religion, or ideology. This noble concept reaches far beyond the
realm of politics; it finds resonance in businesses, families, and countless
other aspects of life. Just as a CEO serves as the ruler of a company, parents
assume the role of rulers within their family, guiding with wisdom and care.
