The cult of incompetence

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27368

Title

The cult of incompetence

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This book, 'The Cult of Incompetence' by Émile Faguet, critiques modern democracy for its tendency to promote and reward incompetence. The author argues that this phenomenon is a result of the democratic system's emphasis on equality and the lack of merit-based selection for public offices.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The Cult of Incompetence', Émile Faguet presents a scathing critique of modern democracy, arguing that it has become a breeding ground for incompetence. The author contends that the democratic system's focus on equality and the absence of merit-based selection for public offices have led to the rise of incompetent individuals in positions of power. Faguet uses various examples, including the French judicial system, to illustrate his point. He also draws parallels between the situation in France and England, highlighting the similarities in the ways both countries are succumbing to the cult of incompetence. Throughout the book, Faguet emphasizes the importance of merit-based selection and the need for a more aristocratic approach to governance. Faguet begins by discussing the principles of different forms of government, citing Montesquieu's work on the subject. He notes that democracy tends towards despotism and that the principle of monarchy is honor. Faguet then turns his attention to the French judicial system, highlighting the appointment of incompetent individuals as judges de paix. The author argues that this is a result of the democratic system's focus on equality and lack of merit-based selection. Faguet also discusses the impact of democracy on morals and manners. He notes that laws spring from morals, and morals spring from law. Faguet argues that democracy extends the love of incompetence, which is its most imperious characteristic. The author cites examples from ancient Greece, where philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle discussed the importance of merit-based selection in governance. Faguet also draws parallels between the situation in France and England, highlighting the similarities in the ways both countries are succumbing to the cult of incompetence. He notes that the English system is characterized by a lack of respect for authority and a tendency towards despotism. Faguet argues that this is a result of the democratic system's focus on equality and lack of merit-based selection. Throughout the book, Faguet emphasizes the importance of merit-based selection and the need for a more aristocratic approach to governance. He argues that this is necessary to prevent the rise of incompetent individuals in positions of power. The author concludes by noting that the cult of incompetence is a threat to modern democracy and that it must be addressed through a return to merit-based selection and a more aristocratic approach to governance.

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Categories

• Psychology
• Politics