"After hearing the news of the release of one of the murder suspects, Cangik asked Limbuk, 'What do you call a police officer who won't get out of bed?''An undercover cop,' Limbuk replied.""Human resources are the beating heart of the nation, pumping vitality and creativity into its societal and economic systems. A skilled and educated populace is the brain trust that drives innovation and decision-making, leading the nation to greater heights.Natural resources are like veins of gold running through the country's body, providing it with wealth and strength. Natural resources serve as the fertile soil from which a nation's prosperity grows, nurturing its economy and supporting its people.Natural and human resources together form the twin pillars that uphold the nation's power and stability, supporting its structure and future. Natural resources are the roots that anchor the nation, while human resources are the branches that reach for the sky, symbolizing growth and expansion," Seruni continued."What are the key things managers do? Julian Birkinshaw and Ken Mark explore leadership through various models and principles that highlight the critical actions and behaviours of effective leaders. First, Birkinshaw and Mark say that managers make decisions about effectively allocating people and money. Most decision-making is not as rational as we might expect it to be. Second, a large part of effective management is about motivating others to take on work and do it effectively. This is hard because every individual has their own unique set of personal drivers, so what works for one person may not work for the next. Finally, management involves making change happen. In large organisations, there are standard, routine ways of working that everyone is comfortable with, so keeping things moving in an existing direction is very straightforward. But shifting the focus in another direction is where management gets difficult.We often make a distinction between management and leadership, where management is about getting work done through others, and leadership is a process of social influence. Every executive really needs to be good at both, as they are complementary activities. But being an effective leader is difficult because, ultimately, it is about how others perceive you. To be a good leader, you therefore need to know yourself as well as you know your people. This is partly about emotional intelligence. It is also about getting feedback from others.Before we continue with the discussion about 'human and natural resources', I would like to invite you to pay attention to an interesting phenomenon in the realm of politics in Indonesia. There is a phenomenon of celebrities and comedians being proposed as regional head or legislator candidates in Indonesia. It is an all-round issue that has various implications and reflects broader trends in politics and society.Celebrities and comedians often have a high level of public recognition and popularity. Their established fan base can translate into a compelling voter base, giving them an edge over traditional politicians who may not be as well-known. Their charisma and ability to connect with the public can make them appealing candidates. This is particularly important in regions where personal appeal and direct engagement with constituents are crucial for political success.John Street delves into the intricate relationships between politics and various forms of popular culture. He argues that politics and popular culture are deeply intertwined, challenging the traditional boundaries that separate them. He asserts that popular culture not only reflects political realities but also actively shapes and influences political ideas, behaviours, and identities. Street highlights that popular culture, through music, television, film, and other media, serves as a powerful platform for political expression. Artists and entertainers often use their platforms to comment on political issues, mobilize public opinion, and advocate for social change.Street explores how popular culture can engage people politically, especially those who might be disinterested in formal political processes. He suggests that through satire, entertainment, and storytelling, popular culture can make politics more accessible and relatable, thereby fostering greater civic engagement.He analyzes how political messages are embedded in various forms of popular culture, often in subtle ways. For instance, films, television shows, and music can carry implicit political ideologies and values that influence audiences' beliefs and attitudes. Street also discusses how celebrities and pop culture icons often become political figures in their own right. Their public personas and endorsements can sway public opinion, influence political campaigns, and shape policy debates.Street points out that political campaigns and movements often adopt the aesthetics and strategies of popular culture to appeal to broader audiences, blurring the lines between political discourse and entertainment.Celebrities have significant influence and reach, making them effective in drawing attention to political issues and mobilizing public opinion. Street examines how their platforms can be used to highlight causes and influence political debates. Celebrities often have a substantial cultural and social impact, allowing them to raise awareness and generate discussions on political matters in ways that traditional politicians might not be able to.Street critically evaluates the impact of celebrity involvement in politics. He questions whether it leads to meaningful political engagement or if it merely serves to commercialize and trivialize serious political issues. He explores the complexities and contradictions of celebrity politics, including the risk of oversimplification of political issues and the potential for reducing political engagement to mere fandom.However Street does not take a prescriptive stance on whether celebrities must engage in politics, instead offering a nuanced analysis of the complexities and consequences of their involvement. He recognizes that celebrities can play diverse roles in society and that their involvement in politics is just one potential path among many. He acknowledges that celebrities can contribute to society in various ways, including through art, entertainment, and philanthropy, without necessarily engaging in political advocacy.One of the key concerns Street raises is the potential for the involvement of celebrities to trivialize serious political issues, reducing complex debates to simplistic or superficial narratives. There is a risk of commodifying political movements when celebrities are involved, potentially undermining the authenticity and grassroots nature of political activism. This nuanced approach allows for a deeper understanding of the role of popular culture in shaping political landscapes.Lauren Berlant and Jennifer Hall delve into the intersection of celebrity culture and political life, exploring how the notion of 'star power' influences public perception and the political landscape. Berlant and Hall define "star power" as the cultural capital and influence that celebrities wield, which can be harnessed to impact political discourses and actions. This power emerges from a combination of visibility, personal branding, and the ability to evoke emotional connections with the public. They argue that celebrities have become adept at crafting personal brands that resonate with diverse audiences. This branding is not only confined to entertainment but extends into political realms where celebrities can leverage their influence to sway public opinion and policy discussions. They also emphasize that celebrities often evoke strong emotional responses, which can translate into political engagement. Their ability to generate empathy, anger, or hope can mobilize public support for political causes or candidates.Berlant and Hall discuss the phenomenon of politicians adopting celebrity tactics, including the cultivation of a public persona that prioritizes charisma, relatability, and media savvy over traditional political qualifications. This blurring of boundaries has altered how political credibility is assessed by the public. They highlight that media skills, such as effective communication, social media presence, and image management, have become crucial for political success. Politicians who excel in these areas can command significant attention and influence, akin to their celebrity counterparts.Berlant and Hall argue that the celebrity-politician dynamic affects how voters perceive and evaluate political candidates. Image and emotional appeal can overshadow policy positions and expertise, potentially leading to a more superficial understanding of political issues. They look at politicians who transitioned from entertainment to politics, such as Ronald Reagan and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Berlant and Hall analyze how these figures leveraged their celebrity status to gain political traction and shape their public personas.A critical concern raised is the tension between authentic political engagement and performative acts designed to garner media attention. They question whether the focus on image and spectacle detracts from meaningful political discourse and action. They explore the ethical implications of conflating celebrity culture with politics, including the potential for manipulation, the erosion of democratic norms, and the commodification of political life. Berlant and Hall argue that while celebrity involvement in politics can democratize access to political discourse, it also raises concerns about the quality and depth of democratic engagement.Mark Wheeler explores the increasing intersection between celebrity culture and political processes. Wheeler argues that the boundaries between celebrity culture and political life are increasingly blurred. He explores how politicians adopt celebrity-like strategies to build their public personas, while celebrities engage in political activism and even run for office. Celebrities use their platforms to promote political messages, often bypassing traditional media channels. This shift alters the dynamics of political campaigning and voter engagement.Wheeler examines how celebrity politics contributes to the rise of identity politics and populism. Celebrities often align themselves with specific social or political causes, resonating with particular demographics. This alignment can lead to a form of populism where personal charisma and media presence become more significant than traditional political qualifications.Wheeler highlights the crucial role of social media in celebrity politics. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram allow celebrities to directly communicate with their followers, creating a more intimate and immediate connection. This direct engagement is reshaping political discourse and influencing public opinion. He explores how celebrities endorse political candidates or causes, leveraging their fame to sway public opinion. Wheeler analyzes various cases where celebrity endorsements have had a significant impact on elections and policy decisions. Wheeler raises questions about the ethical implications and legitimacy of celebrity involvement in politics. He examines whether celebrities have the necessary knowledge and experience to influence political issues and the potential consequences of prioritizing celebrity appeal over substantive policy discussions.He includes numerous case studies and examples of celebrities who have ventured into politics or used their influence to promote political causes. These case studies provide a detailed look at how individual celebrities navigate the political landscape and the effects of their involvement. Wheeler delves into the concept of celebrity activism, where celebrities use their fame to advocate for social or political issues. He explores the motivations behind celebrity activism, the strategies employed, and the impact on public awareness and policy change.Wheeler's analysis is not limited to the United States; he also considers the role of celebrity politics in other countries. He discusses how global celebrities engage in political activities and the varying impacts across different political and cultural contexts. Wheeler analyzes the role of celebrity in politics across several countries, focusing on both Western democracies and other regions where celebrity influence has had a notable impact.Wheeler discusses how the U.S. has been a pioneer in merging celebrity culture with politics. He explores cases like Ronald Reagan, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Donald Trump, all of whom transitioned from celebrity status to significant political roles. The influence of Hollywood, the role of media in shaping political personas, and the impact of celebrity endorsements on elections and policy-making are the key themes of this topic.Wheeler examines the UK’s political landscape, where celebrity influence is significant but operates differently compared to the U.S. He looks at figures like Boris Johnson, who utilized his media persona to advance his political career, and celebrities who engage in political activism. The role of British media, the interplay between entertainment and politics, and the impact of celebrity culture on public perceptions of politicians are the key themes.Italy is highlighted for its unique political landscape, where figures like Silvio Berlusconi have blurred the lines between media mogul, celebrity, and politician. The integration of media ownership and political power, the use of celebrity appeal in political campaigns, and the influence of media on Italian politics are the key themes of this topic.Wheeler discusses the role of celebrities in French politics, where cultural icons often engage in political debates and activism. He looks at how public intellectuals and celebrities influence political discourse. The French tradition of intellectual celebrity, the role of media in shaping public opinion, and the impact of celebrity endorsements on political movements play as the key themes.In Germany, Wheeler explores how celebrities engage in political advocacy and the impact of celebrity culture on political communication. The cautious approach to celebrity politics in Germany, the role of media in political engagement, and the influence of celebrity activism on social issues are strong themes.Wheeler analyzes the significant role of Bollywood celebrities in Indian politics, including how actors and actresses have transitioned to political roles or supported political causes. The intertwining of cinema and politics, the influence of celebrity endorsements on elections, and the role of media in promoting political messages through celebrities play a significant themes.Wheeler looks at the role of celebrities in post-apartheid South Africa, where prominent figures from the entertainment industry have engaged in political activism and social advocacy. The influence of celebrity culture on social change, the role of media in political communication, and the impact of celebrity endorsements on political and social issues are the key themes.In Australia, Wheeler examines how celebrities influence political discourse and engage in advocacy on various social and political issues. The role of celebrities in public debate, the impact of media on political engagement, and the influence of celebrity culture on policy discussions are quite a defining themes.Wheeler explores the role of celebrities in Russian politics, where figures like Vladimir Putin have utilized media strategies typical of celebrity culture to bolster political support. The use of media for political propaganda, the influence of celebrity-like political personas, and the role of celebrity endorsements in shaping public opinion play as key themes.Wheeler touches on various Latin American countries where celebrities, particularly from the entertainment industry, have played significant roles in politics and social movements. The impact of celebrity endorsements on elections, the role of media in political advocacy, and the influence of celebrity culture on political communication and activism are significant.Across these countries, Wheeler emphasizes the role of media in promoting celebrity culture and its integration into political communication. The impact of celebrity politics varies by cultural context, with different countries exhibiting unique ways in which celebrities influence political discourse and public opinion. Celebrity politics is not confined to any single region but is a global phenomenon affecting political communication and engagement worldwide.Wheeler examines a variety of motivations that drive celebrities to engage in political activities, ranging from personal interests and societal influence to broader cultural and political trends. Many celebrities are motivated by strong personal convictions and a desire to advocate for social or political causes they are passionate about. Their fame gives them a platform to raise awareness and drive change on issues they care deeply about. Celebrities like Bono and Angelina Jolie have used their influence to advocate for issues like global poverty and refugee rights, respectively.Celebrities often enter politics to expand their influence beyond their primary field. Political engagement allows them to leverage their popularity to effect change on a larger scale and reach new audiences. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a former actor, became the Governor of California, using his popularity to transition into a role where he could impact policy and governance.The rise of social media and the 24-hour news cycle have increased the visibility and expectations placed on celebrities to take public stances on political and social issues. This cultural shift often pressures celebrities to engage in politics. Celebrities like Colin Kaepernick, who took a knee during the national anthem to protest racial injustice, were propelled into political activism by societal and cultural pressures to take a stand on important issues.Engaging in politics can provide celebrities with significant media attention and publicity, further enhancing their public profile and brand. Political involvement often attracts media coverage that can boost their career and public visibility. Donald Trump’s involvement in politics, initially through high-profile campaigns and media appearances, significantly increased his public exposure, culminating in his election as President of the United States. While this motivation can sometimes lead to criticisms of opportunism, it highlights the symbiotic relationship between media and celebrity status in political engagement.Some celebrities enter politics driven by personal ambition and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. Political office or activism allows them to build a more substantial and enduring impact than they might achieve through their entertainment careers alone. Ronald Reagan transitioned from a successful acting career to politics, eventually becoming the President of the United States and significantly shaping American political history.Celebrities may become involved in politics out of frustration with existing political systems and a belief that they can bring about necessary changes. Their unique perspective and platform can offer an alternative to traditional political actors. Oprah Winfrey has often used her platform to speak out on political issues, reflecting a frustration with the status quo and a desire to influence change.Celebrities often possess significant 'celebrity capital'—a combination of fame, influence, and financial resources—that they can leverage to achieve political goals. This capital can be a powerful tool in political campaigns and advocacy efforts. Celebrities like George Clooney have used their financial resources and influence to support humanitarian efforts and political campaigns, leveraging their celebrity capital for political ends.Celebrities are often part of extensive political and social networks that encourage political engagement. Connections with other politically active individuals can inspire and facilitate their involvement in politics. The political activism of celebrities like Jane Fonda has been supported by networks of like-minded individuals and organizations, facilitating their political engagement.Wheeler presents a nuanced analysis of the impact of celebrity politics, identifying both positive and negative aspects. Celebrities often bring attention to political issues that might otherwise be overlooked. Their influence can engage a wider audience, particularly younger demographics who might not follow traditional political discourse. Celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Emma Watson have used their platforms to raise awareness about environmental issues and gender equality, respectively.Celebrity involvement can mobilize public support and resources for social causes, leading to tangible changes and increased visibility for important issues. The global impact of campaigns like #MeToo, bolstered by high-profile celebrities, brought widespread attention to issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality.Celebrities can help break down complex political issues into more relatable and understandable narratives, making politics more accessible to the general public. Celebrities engaging in climate activism often simplify scientific data into digestible information, encouraging broader participation in environmental movements.Celebrity involvement can sometimes promote democratic values by encouraging civic engagement and voter participation. Campaigns encouraging voter registration and turnout, such as those supported by celebrities like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, have had positive impacts on democratic participation. Celebrities can use their media presence to push for positive social change and influence public opinion in favor of progressive policies. Initiatives like George Clooney's advocacy for humanitarian causes in Darfur have garnered significant media attention and support.But on the opposite side, Celebrities may oversimplify complex issues, reducing nuanced political debates to sound bites and slogans. The risk is that celebrity-driven campaigns might lack depth in addressing multifaceted problems, leading to incomplete or superficial solutions.The focus on celebrity personas can overshadow serious political discussion and policy analysis, reducing politics to entertainment. The media focus on Donald Trump’s celebrity status often overshadowed substantive policy discussions during his presidency.Celebrity involvement can sometimes undermine the role of experts and professionals in political discourse, prioritizing fame over qualifications. Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, promoting controversial health advice, can overshadow scientific voices and lead to misinformation.The use of celebrity tactics in politics can encourage populism and demagoguery, where charisma and media presence become more important than policy competence. The rise of political figures who rely heavily on media appeal and celebrity tactics, like Silvio Berlusconi in Italy, can lead to populist governance styles.The involvement of celebrities in politics raises ethical questions about their legitimacy and the potential for conflicts of interest. Celebrities with financial or personal stakes in specific policies might influence political decisions in ways that benefit their interests rather than the public good.Celebrity-driven political movements may lack long-term commitment, leading to issues being abandoned once media interest wanes. Short-lived celebrity campaigns that fail to sustain momentum or achieve lasting policy changes.The most significant positive aspect of celebrity politics is the heightened political engagement and awareness it fosters. Celebrities can draw attention to critical issues and mobilize people who might otherwise be disengaged from the political process. This engagement can lead to increased voter turnout, greater advocacy for social causes, and a more informed and active citizenry.The most substantial downside is the risk of superficiality and the erosion of serious political discourse. The focus on celebrity personas and media spectacles can overshadow complex policy discussions and undermine the importance of expertise in politics. This trend can reduce politics to a form of entertainment, where the focus on image and media presence detracts from substantive policy debate and thoughtful decision-making.Celebrities and comedians may bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to politics. Their diverse experiences and backgrounds can contribute to a more dynamic and representative political landscape. Their involvement in politics can attract younger voters and those who might otherwise be disengaged from the political process, thereby increasing overall voter participation and interest in civic issues.Critics argue that celebrities and comedians may lack the necessary experience, expertise, and understanding of complex political, economic, and social issues. Effective governance requires more than popularity and charisma; it necessitates policy knowledge and the ability to navigate the intricacies of government operations. There is a risk that such candidates might rely on populist rhetoric and promises that are difficult to fulfill once in office, potentially leading to disillusionment among voters. The focus on entertainment personalities might overshadow serious policy debates and critical issues, leading to a more superficial political discourse.Celebrities and comedians can bring innovative ideas and a fresh approach to problem-solving, potentially leading to creative solutions to long-standing issues. However, there is a concern that celebrities may lack the necessary expertise to address complex policy issues effectively. Their success in politics often hinges on their ability to acquire the knowledge and skills required for effective governance. The focus on celebrity candidates can sometimes lead to a more superficial political discourse, where image and popularity overshadow substantive policy discussions. This can result in a focus on short-term gains and populist measures rather than long-term, sustainable solutions.Celebrities and comedians often come from backgrounds unrelated to politics, which can result in a steep learning curve when they enter the political arena. Effective policy-making requires a deep understanding of complex issues, including economics, law, public administration, and international relations. Celebrities might struggle to grasp these complexities, leading to oversimplified or ineffective policies. Navigating the intricacies of legislative processes and bureaucratic structures requires experience and knowledge that many celebrities may lack. This can hinder their ability to enact meaningful legislation and effectively represent their constituents.Without the necessary expertise, celebrity politicians may become overly reliant on advisors and aides, which could lead to governance issues if those advisors do not have the best interests of the public in mind. There is a risk that the policies proposed by celebrity politicians might focus more on short-term popularity rather than long-term sustainability and effectiveness.The phenomenon of celebrities and comedians entering politics in Indonesia is a complex and evolving trend that reflects broader changes in the political and cultural landscape. While it presents opportunities for increased voter engagement and diverse representation, it also poses challenges related to governance and policy expertise. The appeal of celebrity politicians often lies in their charisma and public persona, which can sometimes lead to a focus on style over substance in political discourse. Celebrities may use their platforms to make grand, populist promises that are difficult or impossible to fulfill. This can lead to public disillusionment if these promises are not met. There is a tendency to prioritize image and media appearances over serious policy discussion, which can detract from the quality of political debate and decision-making. Unrealistic promises and a focus on the image can erode public trust in political institutions when expectations are not met. Populist rhetoric can contribute to increased polarization, as it often involves appealing to emotions and sensationalism rather than fostering constructive dialogue and compromise.Celebrities may prioritize issues that resonate with their public persona rather than addressing the most pressing needs of their constituents. Celebrity politicians might focus on high-profile, media-friendly issues that align with their public image, neglecting less glamorous but equally important areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education. There is a risk that celebrity politicians might use their position to advance personal or career interests rather than serving the public good. Important but less visible issues may be overlooked in favor of more attention-grabbing initiatives. The blending of personal celebrity brands with political agendas can lead to conflicts of interest and questions about the politician’s motivations.Effective governance requires strong leadership skills and the ability to manage complex organizations and systems, which may not be within the skill set of many celebrities. Celebrities may lack the leadership and management experience needed to effectively run government departments or lead legislative efforts. Effective decision-making in politics often involves balancing competing interests and making tough, sometimes unpopular, choices. Celebrities may struggle with this aspect of leadership if they are used to making decisions based on public popularity rather than practical considerations. A lack of leadership and management skills can lead to ineffective governance and poor public service delivery. Celebrities might struggle to hold themselves and others accountable for decisions and actions, leading to a lack of transparency and responsibility in governance.The media attention that celebrities bring can sometimes overshadow serious policy discussions and debates, shifting the focus to more superficial topics. The media may focus more on the personal lives and scandals of celebrity politicians rather than their policy positions and performance, leading to a trivialization of political discourse. The involvement of celebrities can shift the focus of public discourse away from important policy issues to more sensational or superficial topics. Important policy discussions may be overshadowed by celebrity-related news, leading to a less informed electorate. The focus on trivial matters can contribute to public cynicism about the political process and decrease trust in political institutions.The rise of celebrity politicians can sometimes undermine key democratic values by shifting the focus from qualifications and policy knowledge to popularity and media presence. The emphasis on celebrity status over qualifications can undermine the principles of merit-based selection and informed voting. Voters may come to expect entertainment and charisma from politicians, rather than policy expertise and integrity, potentially lowering the overall quality of political leadership. The focus on celebrity candidates can erode the norms of democratic governance and lead to a political culture that values entertainment over effective leadership. The disconnect between celebrity-driven politics and effective governance can lead to voter disillusionment and decreased participation in the democratic process.While the involvement of celebrities and comedians in politics brings a range of potential benefits, it also raises several significant challenges and criticisms. These include concerns about the lack of policy expertise, the focus on populism and image, the potential for misguided priorities, and the impact on democratic values and political discourse. Addressing these challenges requires a careful balance between leveraging the positive aspects of celebrity involvement and ensuring that political leadership remains grounded in knowledge, integrity, and a commitment to serving the public interest.We will continue our discussion in the next episode, biidznillah."
Citations & References:
- Julian Birkinshaw & Ken Mark, 25 Need-to-Know MBA Models, 2017, Pearson
- Lauren Berlant & Jennifer Hall, Star Power: The Impact of Branded Celebrity and Politicians, 2023, University of Chicago Press
- John Street, Politics and Popular Culture, 2013, Polity
- Mark Wheeler, Celebrity Politics: Image and Identity in Contemporary Political Communications, 2013, Polity
