James Barbers Presidential Character Theory Ranks according to
James Barber’s Presidential Character Theory
Ranks according to ¨ Assertiveness
Ranks according to ¨ Assertiveness ¨ Feelings about office
¨ James Barber differentiates between four types of presidential character: activepositive; active-negative; passive-positive; and passive-negative.
¨ Before voters cast their ballots for president, they should know how active the candidate is and whether or not he or she truly enjoys political life. This allows voters to predict presidential performance before the candidate takes office.
Active-positive ¨ These are presidents that were very active in their time in office – They attempted to get a lot of legislation passed – They attempted to change the country
Active-positive ¨ They are enthusiastic to be in office, they enjoy their job – They want the power and responsibility of being in charge – Power is used as a means to achieve success
Active-positive ¨ Presidents:
A word of caution (from Mr. L) ¨ Often times, a president in this category will attempt to do too much work, and in effect burn themselves out – Exodus 18 visits Moses who is attempting to be a judge for over 2 million people – His father-in-law Jethro warns him in 18: 17 “What you are doing is not good. You and these people will only wear yourselves out. ”
A word of caution (from Mr. L) ¨ Jethro goes on to say in 18: 21 “. . but select capable men from all the people-men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain-and appoint them as officials…” ¨ It is important that a president know how to delegate authority, always check this out when selecting a presidential candidate
Active-negative ¨ Again, active in work ¨ However, they have low self-esteem – Have little joy in what they do – Preoccupied with success or failure
Active-negative ¨ Presidents:
Passive-positive ¨ Do not attempt to accomplish a great amount of new legislation – Feel the country is fine, and want to leave it alone
Passive-positive ¨ Want to be loved – They like the office, and want people to accept them – This often means that they are easily manipulated
Passive-positive ¨ Presidents:
Passive-negative ¨ Again, don’t look to accomplish much ¨ Avoid power – Tend to respond to actions and not initiate them – Want to avoid conflict
Passive-negative ¨ Presidents:
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