Understanding Leadership: Exploring Different Theories and Approaches

The Great Man Theory of leadership gained popularity in the 19th century and was inspired by the myths of notable leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, Alexander the Great, and Mahatma Gandhi. It suggests that great leaders are born and not made by society, but rather by the circumstances they face. However, this theory lacks empirical validation, and questions about what motivates someone to become a leader and why some individuals are more inclined to bear the responsibility of others remain unanswered. Some critics argue that the Great Man Theory fails to address these inquiries adequately.

The school of thought that highlights the making of great leaders asserts that certain traits and characteristics found in people all over the world can be developed to make them great leaders. It is these abilities that enable them to shape the course of history. In addition, this theory recognizes that certain famous leaders in history were destined to lead by virtue of their natural talents and abilities.

Effective leadership has long been a topic of discussion and study. One of the most influential figures in the theory of leadership is Thomas Carlyle. According to Carlyle, history is a collection of biographies of great men and leaders who possess divine inspiration and the right characteristics necessary for effective leadership.

Previous theories of leadership focused on the idea that aristocratic individuals were born into their positions of power. This belief perpetuated the notion that leaders were born with innate qualities that could not be taught or developed.

People from lower social status have historically had fewer opportunities to exhibit their leadership abilities. As a result, leadership has become associated with higher social status and the notion that it is an innate trait. This perception continues today, as we often assume that effective leaders possess certain inherent qualities and personalities.

Assumptions made by the great man theory

The following are the primary two assumptions made by the great man theory.

Certain characteristics and traits are inherently present in people who are born as great leaders.

Leaders can emerge in times of great need, possessing innate qualities that set them apart from others. Advocates of this theory view great leaders as heroes who are capable of accomplishing extraordinary feats despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles.

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Arguments against the great man theory of leadership

While there are many arguments which support that leaders are born and are not made, the following are a few of the arguments which do not support the theory of leadership:

Spencer, the renowned sociologist, argued that leaders are not simply born but are shaped by society. In his seminal work on sociology, Spencer acknowledged that a person's development is influenced by a multitude of factors that ultimately shape their character. Therefore, before an individual can successfully transform society, they must first be shaped by it. However, one shortcoming of this theory is that possessing natural leadership abilities does not necessarily guarantee success as a great leader.

Leadership cannot be reduced to a single innate trait or quality. It encompasses a wide range of skills and attributes, including communication, decision-making, empathy, and adaptability. While some individuals may possess natural aptitudes in these areas, leadership development requires intentional effort and dedication. The Great Man theory oversimplifies the complexity of leadership and ignores the critical role of training and practice in cultivating effective leaders.

The Great man theory's popularity as an explanation and understanding of leadership qualities endured until the mid-20th century, despite differing perspectives. However, the rise of behavioral sciences shed light on leadership as more of a science than an art, highlighting its potential to be acquired and developed through learning and cultivation.

Views regarding the theory

The debate over whether leaders are born or made lacks concrete evidence, but the belief that leaders are born can create a barrier for individuals who aspire to become leaders. This belief can lead them to believe that they do not possess the innate qualities necessary for leadership.

It is essential for individuals to possess qualities that naturally make them leaders. While some leadership theories suggest that leaders can be created later in life, it is important to consider the questionable nature of the "great man" theory. Traits identified by Carlyle are often repeated in other leadership theories.

The strength of this theory does not rest on Carlyle's arguments or the notion of hero-worship. Rather, it lies in its capacity to pinpoint the essential values and qualities of effective leadership. As the pioneering scientific study of leadership, it offers a historical context for exploring this complex subject and has sparked numerous fruitful discussions on the topic.

Recent studies have indicated that leadership is not solely determined by innate traits. Numerous factors and characteristics contribute to the development of a leader, including the existing leaders in authority, an individual's interactions with society, their upbringing, and the values they uphold. Merely possessing a high social status does not guarantee leadership ability, as individuals may struggle to comprehend issues from diverse perspectives. Understanding problems at the grassroots level often requires personal experience and empathy.

Leadership is not something that comes easily to everyone, and aristocratic birth may not necessarily guarantee leadership skills. However, with the right mindset, an aristocratic individual can develop the qualities needed to become a successful leader. It takes dedication, passion, consistency, and empathy to truly understand and lead others. Ultimately, it is not a person's birth that determines their leadership potential, but rather their commitment to developing the necessary qualities.

The concept of the Great Man theory holds significant importance in the realm of leadership. Despite being subject to criticism and considered less applicable in current times, it continues to serve as a foundation for numerous theories that have emerged subsequently.

This theory states that leaders are born, and it is a quality that people get by birth, and it is not something that cannot be acquired.

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