The Dark Knight

I went to see the Batman movie, The Dark Knight, with my son, Jeff, this past Saturday night. I was hesitant to go because it was reported to be very dark and bloody. Possibly due to this expectation I did not find it to be excessive in either area. However there had to be at least 10 previews before the movie started. When will the advertising ever end?

Leaving the movie Jeff commented about how Batman demonstrated values of old when he refused to kill any bad guy, particularly the Joker. We discussed how once you make a decision to kill people, then where do you draw the line? It’s easy to conclude killing the Joker would have saved the lives of others, but Batman knows himself too well. He realizes that if he crosses the line to take another’s life, then the line will move. Once he becomes comfortable killing murderers, will he consider stopping a rapist or an armed bank robber by taking their life?

In America the Declaration of Independence endows all citizens the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. At what point, if any, do you forfeit your right to life? You certainly forfeit your right to be free in America if you violate certain laws. Your right to pursue happiness is also curtailed if you violate certain laws. But what about your right to live?

Again I refer you to the blog written about whether a leader today can demonstrate character, courage and chivalry and still be elected as a free world leader. Batman, in his own feeble way, attempts to be a servant leader for the city of Gotham. He demonstrates character, courage and chivalry. But alas, he is just a comic and movie character, not real life.

I suggest you take some of your workers to the movie, The Dark Knight. Afterwards grab a pizza to discuss whether a leader today can have Success With People without lying, focusing primarily on self advancement and avoiding responsibility for their own failures. Try to listen more than lead the conversation. The insights about your team may be quite rewarding.