Parrhesia
παρρησίαpar-ray-SEE-ah
Intermediate
The courage to speak truth freely and frankly, especially to those in power, regardless of personal risk. In ancient philosophy, parrhesia was considered both a moral duty and a democratic virtue—the speaker accepts danger in service of truth.
Modern Application
You demonstrate parrhesia when you voice difficult truths your organization needs to hear, even when silence would be safer for your career. Cultivate this virtue by speaking with precision and goodwill, not recklessness—true parrhesia requires you to have earned the standing to be heard. Your willingness to risk comfort for truth is what separates authentic leadership from mere position-holding.
