Notions of Leadership

The phenomenon of leadership has existed within the spectrum of human interaction since times immemorial, its shifting tenants reflecting the needs of the age and of society. In nature things evolve and grow to better adapt to the demands of the environment, and leadership theory like nature, has evolved over the years to better adapt to the challenges of the age.

The role of leaders historically has been that of a guide, leading their followers, across the perils of the existential landscape. Questions of community survival, prosperity and even the meaning of life have all been areas of human experience in which leadership has historically addressed. As the condition and environments in which humankind has inhabited evolved so has the character of leadership.

“Leadership theories cycled from traits through contingency notions and back to leader styles and leader-member relations…” (Wren, 2004, pg.454). The theories and practices of any given age reflect the needs of society at the time.

Reference:

Wren, D. A. (2004). The history of management thought (5th ed.). New York: John Wiley and Sons.