Chile’s former president Piñera left a lasting mark on his country | Opinion
Sebastián Piñera, who served as president of Chile twice and died last month in a helicopter accident, had a passion for Stoic philosophy. In fact, he counted Marcus Aurelius’ famous “Meditations” among his bedside books. It shaped his style of governing.
Those familiar with Stoicism know this school of thought promoted the cardinal virtues of courage, discipline, justice and wisdom. It was Aurelius, a prominent member of this movement, who first brought these virtues to the governance of the Roman Empire, standing out as an exemplary ruler.
Many public figures have sought to embody these virtues in their daily lives. Among them was Piñera, who served as president from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2022.
A fearless sportsman in private life, Piñera drowned after the helicopter he was piloting crashed into a lake near Santiago. Three passengers survived the Feb. 6 accident.
It is curious how Piñera’s life as an entrepreneur and politician mirrors the cardinal virtues.
Regarding courage, Piñera always pushed himself beyond boundaries, taking principled stands no matter how unpopular. He dared to achieve structural transformations without losing humility and competitive spirit.
He opposed the Augusto Pinochet dictatorship from the private sector, assumed a seat in the Senate where he gained leadership through the rigor of his debates and analysis, and as president, implemented economic and social reforms that benefited his country and enhanced its international standing.
In terms of discipline and temperance, Piñera knew how to face and overcome the most severe adversities. He rebuilt his country after an earthquake, led the rescue of miners trapped underground for weeks in 2010, and managed the onslaught of COVID-19 with aplomb.
Regarding justice, Piñera was motivated by truth, social justice, the defense of human rights and the condemnation of abuse of power. He was committed to fairness, not swayed by biases, whims or prejudices so common in politics.
Piñera was a wise man — studious, meticulous and dedicated. With a doctorate in economics, he delved deeply into social policy, work that continued through his teaching and involvement with the United Nation’s Economic Commission for Latin America (CEPAL).
His wisdom shone through in his entrepreneurial endeavors, where he generated thousands of jobs and brought his values to business success while maintaining modesty about his wealth.
Piñera successfully implemented the Free Trade Agreement with the U.S., was one of the great promoters of the Pacific Alliance, and was the founder of PROSUR.
Piñera became respected and admired. He learned to soar after 50, relishing the adrenaline of horseback rides and motorcycle outings.
With Piñera’s passing, one of Latin America’s greats bids farewell — a statesman seasoned by adversity and a true example of how Stoicism can be embodied when there is a greater sense of duty than egocentric temptations that ruin so many capabilities.
Piñera now moves into the annals of history with more lights than shadows, with more virtues than flaws, because he lived a life in pursuit of greatness.
Iván Duque Márquez was president of Colombia (2018-2022) and is the chair and distinguished fellow for the Ivan Duque Center for Prosperity and Freedom at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Mark Andrew Green is president and CEO of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.
