Leadership Theory
Cultivating Critical Perspectives
2. Edition April 2024
400 Pages, Hardcover
Professional Book
A comprehensive volume on leadership theories and their applications--with an emphasis on social justice
Leadership Theory: Cultivating Critical Perspectives is an interdisciplinary survey text designed for use in undergraduate or graduate classrooms. This trusted book provides an overview of essential theories in leadership studies, infusing critical commentary to enhance readers' understanding and practice of leadership. The book uses compelling examples, reflective questions, and illustrations to cultivate your ability to engage as a critical learner. Powerful narratives from accomplished leaders around the world offer insights on the challenges and rewards of leadership.
This revised edition incorporates the latest research in the field of leadership, as well as substantial changes aimed at bringing increased cohesion to the text. New narratives lend a fresh and relevant tone that today's learners will appreciate.
* * Learn the fundamental concepts, origins, and evolution of 20+ leadership theories
* * Understand the pros and cons of different leadership theories, so you can apply them wisely and effectively
* * Consider the influences of ethics, justice, and social location on leadership
* * Focus on leadership practices that promote social justice and equality
Students studying leadership, as well as professionals developing their leadership skills within specific disciplines, will gain a thorough appreciation of the real-world complexities of leadership and how the leading theories attempt to capture them.
Preface xv
Acknowledgments xxv
About the Author xxix
1. The Evolving Nature of Leadership 1
Why Study Leaders and Leadership? 2
What Is Leadership? 3
Mapping the Definitional Terrain 4
Chapter Summary 22
2. Critical Perspectives as Interpretative Frameworks 27
Letting Go of Theoretical Certainty 28
What Is Critical Social Theory? 29
Central Themes of Critical Social Theory 31
Using Critical Perspectives as Interpretative Tools 39
Essential Preparation for Applying Critical Perspectives 46
Benefits of Using Critical Perspectives 48
Chapter Summary 49
3. Interpreting Leadership Theory Using Critical Perspectives 53
Critical Social Theory and Leadership 53
Evolution of Formal Leadership Theory 54
The Leadership Challenge Model 66
Chapter Summary 72
4. Attribute-Driven Theories 75
Trait-Based Leadership 75
Strengths-Based Leadership 80
Implicit Leadership Theory 87
Deconstructing Attribute-Driven Theories 93
Reconstructing Attribute-Driven Theories 98
Chapter Summary 103
5. Production-Driven Theories 107
Style Theory 107
Situational Leadership 115
Path-Goal Theory 122
Deconstructing Production-Driven Theories 127
Reconstructing Production-Driven Theories 132
Chapter Summary 135
6. Leader-Driven Theories 139
Transforming/Transformational Leadership 140
Authentic Leadership 148
Servant Leadership 155
Deconstructing Leader-Driven Theories 164
Reconstructing Leader-Driven Theories 168
Chapter Summary 170
7. Group-Driven Theories 175
Leader-Member Exchange Theory 175
Team Leadership 184
Shared Leadership 192
Deconstructing Group-Driven Theories 198
Reconstructing Group-Driven Theories 203
Chapter Summary 206
8. Relationship-Driven Theories 211
Connective Leadership 212
The Relational Leadership Model 220
Relational Leadership Philosophies 225
Deconstructing Relationship-Driven Theories 233
Reconstructing Relationship-Driven Theories 235
Chapter Summary 238
9. Complexity-Driven Theories 241
Adaptive Leadership 241
Complexity Leadership Theory 251
Deconstructing Complexity-Driven Theories 258
Reconstructing Complexity-Driven Theories 262
Chapter Summary 264
10. Justice-Driven Theories 269
The Social Change Model of Leadership Development 269
Strategic Social Change Leadership 278
Deconstructing and Reconstructing Justice-Driven Theories 287
Chapter Summary 288
11. Integration and the Path Forward 295
Emergent Themes across Leadership Theories 296
The Interconnection of Leadership Theory and Development 303
Closing Thoughts 308
References 313
Name Index 347
Subject Index 353
--Adrianna Kezar, professor for higher education, University of Southern California
"The prophetic voice of John Dugan speaks to us again. Having used the 1st edition for the past 5 years in my graduate leadership class, I know the profound effect learning from this text had on all of us. Leadership is made real and human."
--Helen K. Lafferty, Interim President, Youngstown State University
"This book reads as a call to action for anyone dedicated to the discipline of leadership for a society fashioned for diversity, inclusion, and justice. Dugan masterfully takes the reader on a journey with the incorporation of constructs, theories, and personal narratives dispersed throughout. The critical approach of this work, coupled with the commentary offered, leaves the reader with new considerations for leadership teaching, learning, and practice."
--Darren Pierre, PhD, Senior Lecturer, A. James Clark School of Engineering, University of Maryland
