Leaders constantly make decisions based on their values ​​and directly influence their constituents. Some of these decisions are insignificant and only affect people in the short term. Some are larger and determine the long-term fate of society; and others go even further in determining who these leaders are as people and how they will leave society for future generations (Joseph, 2001). Socrates raised the question, “What is a virtuous man and what is a virtuous society?” As we look at the leadership that will ultimately decide the future of our society, I believe we need to ponder the same question. If ethics are the basis of politics, as many believe to be true, the two should be tied more closely together. Ethical concepts should have specific implications in politics. There are numerous political scandals seen in American history that exemplify government corruption and highlight the dire need for ethics in such leadership. Political leaders must be an example for the rest of the country; therefore they should be held to a higher ethical standard than a normal citizen. Not only should they be held to a higher standard in the eyes of ordinary people, but the government should also legally hold them to a higher standard. Punishment should be more severe for political leaders if they do something unethical that directly affects the well-being of the people they govern. Politics, although a much abhorred profession, is a necessity for society and requires good leaders who make good political decisions for their interests. constituents. Unfortunately, there is always a negative connotation associated with politicians, as they are usually seen as corrupt, lying and scheming people. There are many differences… half of the article… “The Historical and Political Context of Watergate.” Watergate.info - The scandal that destroyed President Richard Nixon. 1995. Network. December 13, 2011. .Joseph, James A. “Leadership and the Changing Role of Ethics in Public Life.” Lesson. Ethical leadership models for a changing world. University of Texas. January 2001. Web.Jourdan, C. "The Bill Clinton-Monica Lewinsky Scandal | PoliticianScandal.com." PoliticianScandal.com - Political news and articles. Network. December 13, 2011. .Williamson, Thad. "Monica, Bill and Ethics, by Thad Williamson." CrossCurrents Magazine: The best thoughts and writings on religion and the world. Association for religion and intellectual life. Network. December 14. 2011. .