Rethinking Leadership: A Critique of Contemporary Theories

This book provides a comprehensive review of leadership theories and skills required during times of crises and radical uncertainty, highlighting the lack of competencies and offering insights into effective leadership development. It covers key styles, theories, and their potential contributions to developing leaders, making it a valuable resource for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book is a comprehensive exploration of the essential leadership theories and skills required during times of crises and radical uncertainty. Written during the 2020 pandemic, it highlights the significant lack of leadership competencies needed for effective leadership in such challenging contexts. In-depth insights are provided into the capacities and skills that should be part of all leadership development efforts. The book discusses and critiques the latest leadership theories, including mindful leadership, the neuroscience of leadership, and transpersonal and adaptive leadership, assessing their potential contribution to developing effective leaders. Each chapter concludes with a convenient executive summary and questions that can be used for teaching purposes and class discussion.

This book serves as a valuable resource for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate courses, providing a foundational understanding of leadership theory and its practical application. It addresses the interdisciplinary nature of leadership and emphasizes the importance of developing a broad range of skills to navigate complex and uncertain environments. By examining the latest theories and styles of leadership, readers will gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges and opportunities that leaders face in today's world.

The book is organized into five chapters, each dedicated to a specific aspect of leadership during times of crisis. The first chapter introduces the concept of leadership and explores the challenges and opportunities that arise during times of crisis. It discusses the importance of adaptability, resilience, and empathy in leadership and highlights the role of leaders in shaping the response to crises.

The second chapter examines the role of communication in leadership during times of crisis. It explores the challenges of communicating effectively in complex and uncertain environments and discusses the strategies that leaders can use to communicate effectively with their teams, stakeholders, and the public. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of listening and understanding the perspectives of others.

The third chapter explores the importance of decision-making in leadership during times of crisis. It discusses the challenges of making timely and effective decisions in the face of uncertainty and provides strategies for leaders to navigate the decision-making process. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of considering the ethical implications of decisions and the impact they can have on individuals and communities.

The fourth chapter examines the role of collaboration in leadership during times of crisis. It explores the challenges of working effectively with others in a collaborative environment and discusses the strategies that leaders can use to foster collaboration and teamwork. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of building trust and respect among team members.

The fifth chapter examines the role of leadership in creating a resilient and sustainable future. It discusses the challenges of building a sustainable and resilient organization and provides strategies for leaders to create a culture of resilience and sustainability. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of developing a long-term vision and planning for the future.

Throughout the book, real-world examples and case studies are used to illustrate the principles and practices of leadership during times of crisis. These examples provide readers with a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities that leaders face in real-world situations.

In conclusion, this book is a comprehensive exploration of the essential leadership theories and skills required during times of crisis and radical uncertainty. Written during the 2020 pandemic, it highlights the significant lack of leadership competencies needed for effective leadership in such challenging contexts. By providing in-depth insights into the capacities and skills that should be part of all leadership development efforts, the book offers valuable guidance for leaders seeking to develop their skills and navigate the complexities of today's world. Whether you are a seasoned leader or someone aspiring to become a more effective leader, this book will be a valuable resource for your journey.

Weight: 638g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367490881