Why is Leadership Important?
A recent textbook designed specifically for college students lists six foundational principles of why studying and experincing leadership is important:
- Leadership is a concern for all of us. (We all share in the responsibility to contribute effectively.)
- Leadership is viewed and valued differently by various disciplines and cultures. (A multi-disciplinary approach gives better understanding of leadership.)
- Conventional views of leadership are changing. (The rapid pace of change requires new ways of relating to problems.)
- Leadership can be exhibited in many ways. (It is adapted to varying situations.)
- Leadership qualities and skills can be learned and developed. (Leaders are made, not born.)
- Leadership commited to ethical action is needed to encourage change and social responsibility . (Leaders must apply the highest possible standards of eithical conduct.)
From Exploring Leadership for College Students Who Want to Make a Difference by Susan R. Komives, Nances Lucas, and Timothy McMahon (1998), San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers.