Final answer:
The author suggests that leaders who engage with the concept of fairness may become constrained by the expectations of being politically correct, which can prevent effective and unbiased decision-making. This idea ties into the central themes of the article by highlighting the challenges of applying fairness in leadership and the resulting inconsistencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quote “When leaders attempt to navigate the slippery slope of fairness, they will find themselves arbiter of public opinion and hostage to the politically correct” suggests that when leaders engage with the complex issue of fairness, they become entangled with the diverse and often conflicting expectations of the public. As a result, they may feel pressured to align with what is considered politically correct, rather than addressing the issues based on merit or broader principles. This can compromise their ability to lead effectively and unbiasedly, as their decisions may be swayed by public opinion rather than justice or equity. This idea contributes to the central themes of the article by highlighting the challenges that arise when attempting to apply a one-size-fits-all concept of fairness to leadership and governance, which often leads to inconsistent and unsatisfactory outcomes. In the broader context of societal problems and injustices, the quote emphasizes the difficulty of enacting change without getting mired in the controversy of individual perceptions of what is fair or just.