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.