Obama's Gift

The aura around Barack Obama has the political strength of JFK, the public fascination of Princess Diana, the symbolic significance of Jackie Robinson, and a demographic appeal as if all three were standing on stage together. When historians look back on the presidency of Barack Obama, I anticipate that he will be remembered as the most effective leader of all time. Although, America has had its fair share of brilliant leaders, I believe Obama's real gift is his ability to understand the power of his popularity, and actively engage his audience from an educational standpoint. Unlike any leader in history, Obama's approach in addressing our nation is focused on knowledge and not power. As we've seen over the past two years, sociological and psychological behavior determine economic equilibrium in a capitalistic society. In addition to being Commander In Chief, Barack Obama has taken on a role as our nation's pedagogue, and given its citizens the privileged title of "perpetual student." Years from now Barack Obama's biggest achievement will not be any specific piece of legislation passed during his presidency; instead, historians will reflect on his ability to communicate and mobilize our nation by increasing the average citizen's understanding of the driving factors in our economy, and the impact of social perception on economic reality.