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.

Review

"What a fantastic book―I could not put it down! This critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the best-known leadership theories fundamentally enhances our understanding. Dugan’s insights are transformative. He offers ways to improve these theories rather than disregarding them based on their shortcomings. I love the notion of zombie theories―you have to read the book to find out what that is! The narratives help ground complex concepts and the reflection questions compel the reader to engage with the material."

―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

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 The Evolving Nature of Leadership

Chapter 2 Critical Perspectives as Interpretative Frameworks

Chapter 3 Interpreting Leadership Theory Using Critical Perspectives

Chapter 4 Attribute-Driven Theories

Chapter 5 Production-Driven Theories

Chapter 6 Leader-Driven Theories

Chapter 7 Group -Driven Theories

Chapter 8 Relationship -Driven Theories

Chapter 9 Complexity-Driven Theories

Chapter 10 Justice-Driven Theories

Chapter 11 Integration and the Path Forward

About the Author

John P. Dugan is the Chief Research & Development Officer at the Center for Expanding Leadership & Opportunity. John co-founded and is the principal investigator of Multi-Institutional Study of Leadership (MSL), the largest international study of leadership outcomes. He also co-authored The Handbook for Student Leadership Development.