In her opinion piece, Elisabeth Hjorth raises critical questions about the necessity of charisma in leadership, specifically addressing Lars Strannegård, the rector of the Stockholm School of Economics. She reflects on Strannegård's emphasis on art and public education as essential components of societal development, noting that while these subjects are significant, the era of relying solely on charismatic figures may need to be reassessed. Hjorth suggests that the public can sometimes fall into the trap of idolizing leaders, potentially overshadowing the collaborative and systemic approaches that could be more beneficial for growth.

Moreover, Hjorth argues that a focus on personality-driven leadership may detract from the collective efforts required to address societal challenges. She expresses concern that the tendency to gravitate towards charismatic leaders could hinder progress, as it may foster dependence on individuals rather than collective initiatives. By asking whether charisma is truly what society needs, she calls for a discourse that values shared responsibility and informed decision-making over singular personas.

Ultimately, Hjorth advocates for a more balanced approach to leadership that emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives and the contributions of the community rather than solely relying on the allure of charismatic figures like Strannegård. Her commentary invites readers to think critically about how society defines leadership and the implications of nurturing certain traits over others in the quest for progress.