[diego]

I didn't think of it outside the realm of startups. However, it's obvious that there are people who cannot stop themselves from building something, while others are more driven by preserving existing value for posterity (e.g. ancient art or buildings, perhaps even the environment). It's clear to me that society needs both.

Also, I think some of the best leaders are neither guardians nor builders by my definition. They are exceptionally good at inspiring others to take one course of action or the other as needed. Perhaps we could call them Charismatic Communicators?