FTI: Rethinking Power: Creating a Future of Ethical Leadership

For most of human history, power has been seized and sustained through strength, coercion, and manipulation. Foundational works such as Sun Tzu's The Art of War, Machiavelli's The Prince, Hobbes' Leviathan, Locke’s Two Treatises of Government, and Greene's 48 Laws of Power reflect how leaders have historically justified their control—whether through strategy, fear, divine right, or social contracts.

But history doesn’t have to define our future.

In this session, Garrett Lang, Executive Director of the Free Thinker Institute, proposes a new ethical model for gaining and maintaining power. One rooted not in domination, but in empowerment. He will outline how future leaders must use power to prevent significant unnecessary harm, empower individuals to pursue happiness, and foster critical thinking and fairness across society.

Rather than perpetuating inequality and manipulation, we’ll discuss how leaders can intentionally seek power to:

• Protect human dignity and individual rights.
• Empower others to reach their potential.
• Create equal opportunities for education and economic success.
• Build systems that minimize harm while maximizing freedom and happiness.

The presentation will offer practical steps for leaders—and voters—to create a world where power is used ethically, equitably, and sustainably. Together, we’ll explore how transforming our approach to leadership can create a more compassionate and flourishing society.

Format: Lecture and discussion

Note: social time for our community 15 minutes before the presentation.

To get familiar with our past events, feel free to check out our YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmixGB9GdrptyEWovEj80zg

After registering via zoom, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

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