Ignite Your Will and Create Meaningful Change in Your Community

In Brian Aull’s book The Triad: Three Civic Virtues That Could Save American Democracy, you’ll find an insightful approach to living in any democracy. For over a decade, the MG Rush Leadership Technique has also promoted a ‘trivium.’  The “Law of Threes” is found in many of the world’s great philosophies, such as Jainism’s Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct, or St. John’s Apocryphal Thought, Word, and Deed. Let’s explore Aull’s suggestions for improving your community. Note carefully how they align with these timeless principles.

Ignite Your Will and Find a Way to Improve Community

Brian Aull Ph.D. (M.I.T.)

Aull seeks to counteract the forces that ‘atomize’ or fracture society, promoting selfishness and materialism. Drawing from his experiences growing up in the Midwest, Aull presents a framework that transcends traditional political labels, describing it as neither ‘liberal’ nor ‘conservative,’ but simply sensible. This is not an academic book; instead, it offers common-sense reflections on how society has evolved, particularly how politicians, voters, and other stakeholders have distorted the once-promising landscape of the United States in the 20th century. His urgent message calls for approaches that prioritize community improvement above all else.

Aull makes a compelling argument for citizen-driven change, asserting that the political system is stagnant and ineffective—a point few would dispute. His concern stems from the many well-intentioned individuals who are waiting for change to happen, rather than actively initiating it. He begins by critiquing the current two-party system and delves into the influences of money, media, and ideological extremism in politics.

He then contrasts competition and collaboration in a free market, employing the ‘Gallant and Rude’ effects to illustrate his points. Aull emphasizes the importance of developing a society based on the ‘collaborative functioning of diverse parts,’ setting the stage for his core message and call to action, centered on:

  • A spirit of service,
  • A commitment to learning, and
  • Building community.”

A Pathway to Building a Better Community

Aull lays out his arguments with personal passion, using coherent examples in an easy-to-read style. When discussing the spirit of service, he urges voters to elect leaders of good character—those who prioritize the common good. His exploration of what constitutes ‘common’ is particularly insightful and worth reading. As he emphasizes a commitment to learning, some readers may recognize the disadvantages of living in the U.S., particularly in relation to education and opportunity.

Aull’s discussion on building community is perhaps his most persuasive. He candidly reveals that his wife is the daughter of an African American father and a white mother, adding depth to his call for unity. The benefits of building community, he argues, culminate in a call to service (the will to act) and learning (the pursuit of wisdom). Aull underscores that the beauty and power of a thriving community come from balancing individualism with diversity, ultimately fostering a strong sense of shared purpose.

Drawing on both historical and contemporary experiences, Aull makes a compelling case for virtues like civility, freedom, and compassion. He argues that freethinking individuals exhibit true humanity and that those with good character are inherently compassionate. He advocates for a vibrant free market with a social conscience, citing examples of companies that perform well financially while upholding ethical standards. Aull calls for a smaller, more responsive government that works closely with citizens to ensure fairness for those who cannot advocate for themselves, particularly the elderly and infirm. His practical suggestions on voting, Congress, and lobbying merit serious consideration.

Humane and Compassionate Decision-Making

Aull offers an engaging discussion of Adam Smith, Karl Marx, and the ‘invisible hand.’ He reminds us that:

‘No society can surely be flourishing and happy, of which the greater part of the members are poor and miserable.’

He debunks myths about free enterprise while respecting individual rights. He urges us to imagine the state of our environment—air, water, and land. An environment that largely enforces no consequences for those who pollute.

He redefines prosperity, not as financial wealth, but as the freedom to pursue meaningful goals without the constant burden of money. His logical approach to healthcare includes startling facts, and his treatment of economics and race issues is grounded in eye-opening statistics about the long-term impact of the slave trade on Africa and the wealth it generated for Europeans and Americans.

Educators will appreciate his persuasive case for increasing pay for effective teachers. Scientists will value his commitment to keeping religion honest through rational inquiry. Humanitarians will be moved by his hopeful vision for the future. We urge others to read this book and embrace its call to action. And you should too.

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