“The heaviest penalty for declining to rule is to be ruled by someone inferior to yourself.”
Political leadership is shaped by both experience and the wisdom gleaned from transformative ideas. Understanding the forces that have defined history and political thought is crucial for those looking to lead. Today at What We Reading, we’re exploring some of the best books that changed politics and remain essential reading for anyone serious about becoming a political leader. From political philosophy to strategies for influence and power, these books offer timeless lessons on leadership, strategy and the complexities of governance. Whether you’re pulled to the revolutionary writings of thinkers like Machiavelli or looking for practical leadership guides, these must-reads will inspire and challenge your understanding of political change. So, dive into these influential political books that promise to equip you with all the knowledge and insight needed to make a lasting imprint on the world.
The Republic – Plato
Kicking off our list of books that changed politics is Plato’s The Republic, a classic that explores key themes of justice, governance and political leadership. In this foundational work of political philosophy, Plato presents a vision of an ideal society, structured around the pursuit of justice and the common good. Through a series of dialogues, the philosopher Socrates engages with his peers to define the nature of justice, examine the roles of rulers and citizens, and outline the responsibilities of leaders in constructing a harmonious society.
Aspiring leaders can draw invaluable insights from Plato’s exploration of the ideal political structure, including the importance of wisdom and virtue in leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring politician or a student of political theory, The Republic still offers timeless lessons on the role of power, education, and the balance between individual rights and collective responsibility in political life. This must-read book remains a cornerstone of political thought, providing essential insights for anyone interested in the dynamics of governance and political change.
The Prince – Niccolo Machiavelli
The Prince is a landmark work on political leadership and strategy, offering a pragmatic guide for aspiring leaders. Written back in the sixteenth century, this influential book is often regarded as the cornerstone of political realism. Machiavelli explores how rulers can acquire, maintain, and consolidate power, emphasising the importance of decisiveness, cunning, and strategic thinking in leadership.
Infamous for its blunt advice – such as the notion that “the ends justify the means” – The Prince is essential reading for anyone interested in political thought and the complexities of governance. Aspiring leaders can learn from Machiavelli’s insights into human nature, the dynamics of power, and the necessary balance between mortality and political necessity. Though controversial, The Prince remains invaluable for understanding the harsh realities of politics and is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate this haphazard world with skill and intelligence.
Check Out These Essential Politics Books For Beginners
The Communist Manifesto – Karl Marx And Friedrich Engels
No list of books that changed politics would be complete without The Communist Manifesto, one of the most influential works in history that challenged the foundations of capitalist society and advocated for revolutionary change. Published in 1848 and authored by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, this brief but powerful manifesto calls for the overthrow of the bourgeoisie capitalist class and the establishment of a classless society.
An absolute must-read for aspiring leaders and anyone interested in political theory, the manifesto presents arguments for the collective ownership of the means of production and critiques the exploitation inherent in capitalist society. Marx and Engels urge workers of the world to unite, as they believe the struggles of the proletariat working class will inevitably lead to a revolution that redraws society. For those interested in the history of political thought and the forces that shape contemporary political ideologies, this work provides invaluable insights into the roots of political change and the enduring pursuit of equality.
The Art Of War – Sun Tzu
Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is another timeless classic on strategy, leadership, and conflict, offering essential lessons for aspiring leaders in politics, business, and beyond. This ancient Chinese text, dating back to the fifth century BCE, presents military strategies that emphasise the importance of preparation, flexibility, and the psychological aspects of warfare. While it primarily focuses on military strategy, the principles outlined in The Art of War have been widely applied in political leadership, where understanding your opponents and navigating complicated scenarios is key.
Aspiring leaders can draw invaluable insights on the importance of adaptability, the strategic use of resources, and the need to avoid unnecessary conflict. Whether you’re involved in politics or looking to enhance your leadership skills, this must-read book offers a blueprint for overcoming challenges and achieving victory in any form of competition.
The Audacity Of Hope – Barack Obama
First published in 2006, The Audacity of Hope is Barack Obama’s call for a new kind of politics in the modern world – a politics that works to bridge across the shared understandings that unite Americans. Lucid in his vision of the United States’ place in the world, unflinchingly candid on his family life and his time in the Senate, the would-be 45th President sets out his political convictions and inspires readers to trust in the dogged optimism that has guided the nation through centuries.
Through a compelling blend of personal narrative and political analysis, The Audacity of Hope encourages readers to dream of a better future and take action to achieve it. For aspiring leaders, it’s a call to embrace the responsibility of leadership and pursue change with optimism and determination, making it an essential read for anyone interested in politics and leadership.
Check Out The Best Books About Barack Obama
The Wealth Of Nations – Adam Smith
Adam Smith’s masterpiece, first published back in 1776, has long been lauded as the foundation of modern economic thought, and remains the single most important account of the rise of, and the principles behind, modern capitalism. Delivered with sharp, clear prose, The Wealth of Nations articulates the concepts invaluable to making sense of modern society, and shines a light on how Smith’s analyses and illuminations continue to shape the world we live in.
Aspiring leaders and anyone interested in political thought can learn from Smith’s insights into the dynamics of free markets, labour, and the accumulation of wealth. Smith argues that, through the ‘invisible hand’ of the market, individuals pursuing their own interests can lead to wider social benefits. The Wealth of Nations has influenced both economic theory and political policy, making it one of the most crucial books that changed politics for anyone looking to understand the principles that shape our modern economic systems.
The Origins Of Totalitarianism – Hannah Arendt
The Origins of Totalitarianism by Hannah Arendt is a profound political book that explores the roots and dangers of totalitarian regimes. First published in 1951, Arendt examines how systems of absolute power arise, honing in on the historical conditions that enabled the likes of Fascism and Stalinism to take hold. Through her exploration of anti-Semitism, imperialism, and the breakdown of traditional political structures, Arendt presents critical insights into the mechanics of totalitarianism.
Aspiring leaders and political thinkers can learn from Arendt’s analysis of how governments can manipulate power and erode individual freedoms, providing essential lessons on the importance of political vigilance and the protection of democratic institutions. Timely and powerful, this is a must-read reminder about the dangers of unchecked power and the fragility of freedom. Arendt’s work continues to shape political thought, making it an indispensable resource for anyone looking to understand the complex dynamics that led to the rise of oppressive regimes.
The End Of History And The Last Man – Francis Fukuyama
Francis Fukuyama’s The End of History and the Last Man is a provocative and influential political book that explores the trajectory of global political development in the wake of the Cold War. Fukuyama argues that liberal democracy may represent the final form of human government – a bold claim that sparked intense debate among scholars and aspiring leaders alike.
Blending political philosophy, history, and international relations, he examines the rise of liberal democracies in the post-Cold War world and suggests that ideological evolution may have reached its peak. For anyone interested in political thought, global governance, or the future of democracy, this must-read book offers a compelling perspective on the forces shaping modern politics.
The Road To Serfdom – Friedrich Hayek
The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich Hayek is a powerful political book warning against the dangers of central planning and government overreach. Penned during the Second World War, Hayek argues that even well-intentioned movements toward economic control and collectivism can lead societies down a path toward totalitarianism. With clarity and urgency, he defends individual liberty, free-market capitalism, and limited governance as essential safeguards against tyranny.
For aspiring leaders, this must-read book serves as both a historical analysis and a philosophical defence of political and economic freedom. Hayek’s ideas have left a lasting impression on political thought, especially in debates around socialism, capitalism, and the role of the state. The Road to Serfdom remains deeply relevant today, challenging readers to reckon with how policy decisions can affect personal freedom and democratic institutions.
Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
