Los Angeles, California Sep 22, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - American politician Richard “Dick” Gephardt presents a provocative interpretation of an enduring principle in Be Selfish: Live the Golden Rule. Rather than viewing kindness, empathy, and respect as acts that require setting aside self-interest, Gephardt argues that treating others as one would want to be treated can ultimately serve everyone involved.
The idea began with his mother, Loreen, who taught him from childhood to consider how his words and actions would feel if directed toward him. At 85, Gephardt looks back on that lesson as the “North Star” that influenced his personal relationships, decades in public service, and later work in business.
Gephardt supports the book’s central message with experiences from his political career. He recalls going door to door to listen to constituents, a practice that helped shape his approach to public service throughout 28 years in Congress. He also recounts applying the same principle when building relationships with congressional colleagues and pursuing leadership positions.
The book extends the Golden Rule into the workplace, where Gephardt examines employee relations, transparency, shared ownership, and the importance of listening. His experiences working with more than 50 companies reinforced his belief that respectful relationships between leadership and employees can create stronger, mutually beneficial organizations. The discussion ultimately broadens to international relations, including his reflections on the United Nations and Marshall Plan as examples of cooperation following World War II.
An attorney and longtime public servant, Gephardt represented Missouri’s 3rd congressional district from 1977 to 2005 and served as House Majority Leader and House Minority Leader.
Be Selfish: Live the Golden Rule offers the lessons of an 85-year life built around one deceptively simple conviction: treating others well can also be one of the most beneficial choices a person makes.
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