Theodore Roosevelt

Principles are our summary of their public statements.

• Acknowledge New Complexities

  Strategy

  Growth and industrial development create new, complex problems that previous generations could not foresee; leaders must adapt to these modern intensities.

  2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source Inaugural Address, 1905  (opens in a new tab)

• Foster Fair Labor Relations

  Management

  Business owners should avoid keeping employees in a state of helpless dependence, as this creates a legacy of social harm and instability.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source American ideals, and other essays, social and political  (opens in a new tab)

• Commit Fully to New Environments

  Strategy

  To succeed in a new market or culture, one must abandon old habits and fully adopt the standards of the new domain.

  Supporting quotes

  • “We have no room for any people who do not act and vote simply as Americans, and as nothing else.”

    “if he wishes ever to amount to anything he must throw himself heart and soul, and without reservation, into the new life to which he has come.”

  1 more supporting quote is in the member records.

• Value Individual Energy Over Systems

  Mindset

  Real progress comes from individual intelligence and forethought rather than waiting for external systems or legislation to solve problems.

  Supporting quotes

  • “No man can do good service in the Legislature as long as he is worrying over the effect of his actions upon his own future.”

  2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

• Value organized efficiency over philanthropy

  Management

  A well-run organization or 'machine' is a more effective tool for achieving goals than the efforts of unorganized, well-meaning outsiders.

  Supporting quotes

  • “A gentleman interested in a proposed law to protect primaries took to telegraphing daily questions as to its progress--a habit of which I broke him by sending in response telegrams of several hundred words each”

  2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

• Incentivize Local Leaders Individually

  Leadership

  To ensure a large organization functions effectively, leaders must ensure that local influencers see a direct personal interest in the success of the whole.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source American ideals, and other essays, social and political  (opens in a new tab)

• Expose hidden voting behavior

  Management

  People often act differently in private committees than in public forums; forcing transparency ensures accountability for their decisions.

  Supporting quotes

  • “The men of intelligence and ability who once familiarize themselves with the workings of the system, as they are bound to do if they are on the committee, are sure to become its supporters.”

  2 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

• Ignore irrational opposition to reform

  Resilience

  When implementing honest changes that disrupt corrupt but profitable systems, expect fierce attacks from those who benefited. Stay the course if the results benefit the broader community.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source American ideals, and other essays, social and political  (opens in a new tab)

• Apply Rules Without Bias

  Management

  Justice and standards should be applied equally to everyone, regardless of their status, wealth, or background. Do not let political or social connections influence professional decisions.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source American ideals, and other essays, social and political  (opens in a new tab)

• The Necessity of Hard Virtues

  Mindset

  Material prosperity and culture are insufficient if not backed by the courage and resolution to defend them against threats.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source American ideals, and other essays, social and political  (opens in a new tab)

• Avoid Financial-Only Perspectives

  Decisions

  Approaching every subject purely from a financial standpoint can lead to short-sighted decisions that ignore moral duties and long-term safety.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source American ideals, and other essays, social and political  (opens in a new tab)

• Efficiency Must Have Moral Direction

  Integrity

  Competence and hard work are useless or even dangerous if they are not directed toward the public good or ethical ends.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source Wikisource: Citizenship in a Republic  (opens in a new tab)

• Ensure a Fair Start

  Leadership

  The goal of leadership is to provide an approximately fair start so each person can show their true potential through effort.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source Address of President Roosevelt at Keokuk, Iowa, October 1, 1907  (opens in a new tab)

• Adapt Rules to Local Realities

  Decisions

  Standard regulations must be modified when environmental or market conditions, such as rainfall or land quality, differ from the norm.

  3 more supporting quotes are in the member records.

  Source Address of President Roosevelt at Keokuk, Iowa, October 1, 1907  (opens in a new tab)