Ancient Persians Made Decisions Twice

When faced with a monumental choice, such as whether to go to war, ancient Achaemenid Persians employed a unique form of deliberation. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, they would thoroughly debate the matter while under the influence of wine. They believed this state encouraged boldness and a more truthful expression of their feelings, free from the sober constraints of caution or fear. The decision they reached during this spirited council was carefully noted.

The following day, the same men would reconvene to reconsider the issue, this time completely sober. This second meeting was a check on the passion of the first, allowing for logic, foresight, and a clear-headed assessment of the consequences. The true genius of the system lay in its requirement for consensus between these two very different states of mind.

If the sober council affirmed the drunken resolution, the decision was considered robust and was immediately acted upon. However, if their clear-headed reflection led to a different conclusion, the original plan was discarded. This fascinating process ensured that any major undertaking was supported by both emotional conviction and rational analysis, creating a powerful check and balance system within a single group of decision-makers.