# Great Man Theory The theory — given canonical form by [[Thomas Carlyle]] in *On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and the Heroic in History* (1841) — that history is driven by the will and genius of exceptional individuals rather than impersonal forces. The standing rival of structural and materialist explanations (see the [[Philosophy of History]] branch), and the implicit historiography of every strongman cult, founder-worship culture, and 'one great CEO' theory of governance from [[Caesarism]] to [[Neoreaction]]. > [!info] Stub — created 2026-06-06 as a link target for the reactionary-canon buildout (see [[Philosophy in Right-Wing Thought Hub]]). Expand.