Today's words of wisdom ...

Part of an irregular series in which we look at wise words from history and how they deepen our understanding of the here and now ...

"It is also difficult for men in high office to avoid the malady of self-delusion. They are surrounded by worshippers... They live in an artificial atmosphere of adulation and exaltation, which sooner or later impairs their judgment. They are in grave danger of becoming arrogant or careless - Calvin Coolidge, 30th U.S. president 1923-29.

Indeed, some particularly wise words from a man regarded as not only a decidedly mediocre president, but a very ordinary intellect as well.

But Coolidge was a two-term president who did some things right, like sagely understanding the perils of power. Coolidge's gift and curse as a man was his temperment - cool, detached, unemotional.

That temperment clearly helped produce this wisest of quotes. Coolidge was ensconced against being swept away in the accoutrements of power.

But how many leaders have fallen victim, seen their judgement impaired by the "artificial atmosphere of adulation" that necessarily follows their placement in high office?

History's list is long.