Forum: Wise Decisions, Heuristics, and Leadership: Who were the leaders of the past?

I am trying to locate literature explaining the role of wisdom in selection of leaders throughout the ages.

For example, is it true that in ancient societies the leaders were considered to be the wisest within their group?

Is there any support for this claim? 

Thank you,

Tzur

TMK:

I am trying to locate literature explaining the role of wisdom in selection of leaders throughout the ages.

You may find useful the following search facilities:

• Anthrobase
• Anthropological Index Online 

 Interesting point. My understanding (I am a Hebrew speaker) is that Tzedek is better translated as Justice rather than wisdom. A wise person should have Tzedek as a guiding principle. Tzadik, however, can be a simple person too. It refers to how the person behaves towards others and the God, rather than their social position. Nevertheless, your comment led me to find this paper which actually explains (in the intro) why wisdom and social elite go hand in hand:

http://search.sabinet.co.za/images/ejour/script/script_v81_a10.pdf

Thank you!

Tzur