The adage, “absolute power corrupts absolutely,” feels relevant today. Authoritarian leaders are on the rise worldwide. Democracy is on the decline, even here in the United States. Does power twist otherwise good people? Or will bad people always take power by the reigns? 

That is the question at the heart of former Minnesotan and political scientist Brian Klaas’ new book. In “Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us,” he explores why we have so many awful leaders, from political dictators to corporate bosses to the local neighborhood association bully.  

He joined host Kerri Miller for another conversation featuring Big Books and Bold Ideas. This week, she and Klaas discuss why power changes people and if there’s anything that can be done to ensure that leaders don’t abuse their clout.  

Guest: 

• Brian Klaas is an associate professor in global politics at University College London and a columnist for The Washington Post. His latest book is “Corruptible: Who Gets Power and How It Changes Us.”