The theoretical
foundational belief about leadership was derived from the idea of various
renowned philosophers from the ancient Greece. These ideas were widely spread
through the influence of the vast Roman Empire.
The Roman Empire
adapted a philosophy that subjugating other people was a perfect and acceptable
practice. As their empire becomes more renowned, their philosophy towards
people and different races began to control how they treated their subjects and
how the subjects began to think about themselves.
1)
The Theory of “Birth Trait”;
This
simply means that some humans are born with special qualities that
automatically qualify them for leadership role. While others who do not have
these special qualities are destined to be followers and be subordinate. The
very moment a person is berthed, he/she has been marked for either leadership
or subjection (Aristotle). So many people have to believe that only certain
individual can be leaders, thereby re-enforcing the ancient philosophy that
leaders are superior to the rest of the people. It is important to note that
everyone exercises his/her leadership role in a particular area of their
gifting. We all possess a special gift and no one is superior to others, even
when they are under our authority.
2)
The Theory of “Chosen By The Gods”;
It
implies that leadership is only reserved for a favoured few whom the “gods”
have chosen for an exalted position over the population. It is mandated that
the chosen ones are to control, direct the lives, future and fortunes of those
who are not chosen. In reference to the Roman Empire philosophy, if the gods
didn’t choose anyone to become a leader, he/she was destined to spend their
life as a slave or mere servant. In other words, if you are not a member of the
elite race, you become a second class. No matter how educated a man becomes,
even if he earned several PhD’s, he would always been seen as inferior and
existing primarily for the benefit of those who were born leaders. On the other
hand, those born into poor families and whose education and social status are
not as prestigious, were not mandated to aspire to the highest and most
influential leadership positions.
3)
The Theory of “ Charismatic Personality”;
This
simply implies that those who are extrovert and charming, those who possess a
unique personality, have good communication skills and therefore they are
regarded as good leader. People with these personalities are believed to be
blessed by the gods with this gift that make them superior to others. Many
people automatically regard such charismatic individual as a destined leader.
Such charismatic people does not necessary mean they are a true leader.
4)
The Theory of “External Factors”;
The
influence of our cultural and traditional views of leadership places a very
vital role as external factors. Philosophy gotten outside circumstances plays a
very vital role in shaping the abilities and character of any leaders. Another
external factor to be considered is—studying leadership courses and training.
It is assumed that acquiring MBA or attending leadership conferences is a
pre-requisite to be a qualified leader. This theory does not generally
emphasize a leader’s inner purpose, beliefs and convictions, all of which are
the core ingredients of a successful leadership.
<< Felix .U. Rogers >>
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