Briefly outline the evolution of theories on leadership. Describe how one theory

Question

Briefly outline the evolution of theories on leadership. Describe how one theory led to the next. Explain how the practical application of leadership styles have changed because of this evolution. Identify current issues in applying leadership theory. In 500-750 words Briefly outline the evolution of theories on leadership. Describe how one theory led to the next. Explain how the practical application of leadership styles have changed because of this evolution. Identify current issues in applying leadership theory. In 500-750 words

Explanation / Answer

Evolution of leadership theories :

1. Great Man Theory , after the industrial revolution when the science of leadership was still developing , people beleived that their are some people born with the intrinsic traits to be leaders . The leaders can not be created , they are endowed with leadership genetically .major proponents was Thomas Carlyle .

2. Trait Theory : Focussed on the possession of leaderships traits . Whoever had these traits could become a leader traits like social traits , physical traits and mental capability. Although research could never corroborate this theory.

3. The next stage leadership was believed to be in the behavior of the individual . which means if one could develop these behavior one could be a great leader . There from this view point ;leaders were not born .

4. The next stage in evolution have been contingency theory , this is situational in nature and beleived that diffrent leaders were made differently in specific circumstances that they faced .

5. Transformational leadership : the type leadership which convinces followers that they will bring about a change and everyone becomes a party to the change .

This evolution of thoughts and styles of leadership is in sync with how industry has changed over the years . The leadership selection in the organization also changed as the philosophy of leadership changed over the years . The current issue in leadership is how to create leaders who could instill confidence in the employees of the long term sustainability of the organization .

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