Dear all,
Ive indicated earlier - though briefly - the concept of leadership according to Islam perspective. As has already been emphasised in tutorial 3, question b, perspectives on leadership are varied. You are expected to indicate your understanding of the concept of leadership from two different perspectives, i.e (i) according to Islam; and (ii) Western view. An article on the concept of leadership according to Islamic view has been posted earlier - August 9th, to be exact - and I believe it helps you understand the topic better. Western view of leadership are explained by many theories. The general conceptualisation of leadership as perceived by Western researchers and practitioners is that leadership is understood as a social influence process through which one individual exerts influence, intentionally, over others to structure the behaviours and relationships within a group or organisation (Yukl, 1981). It is described as a dynamic process in a group whereby one individual influences the others to help achieve group tasks.
Further, researchers believe that if matters involving leadership are closely observed, there are always three elements or variables emerge on the surface, i.e. (1) the leader qualities of character or personality; (2) the situation; and (3) the group or followers’ needs and values (Adair, 1984:26; Cole, 1990:215). One among many definitions of seeing is to regard it as a position within an institution, or an organizational function (Seligman, 1950). When leadership is positionally defined, it is primarily associated with rights, duties and obligations associated with a level or a position in a hierarchial structure, or an informal, stratified collectivity (Edinger, 1975). Likewise, leadership may also refer to formal roles or positions, or types of activities or actions, or to the result of such actions (Olsen, 1980).Thus, to sum it all up, in general, leadership is defined and conceptualised in terms of;1. personal traits; or personality2. individual behaviours;3. interpersonal influence; and4. situational factors. Have fun reading.
Questions for Discussion:
1) In what ways might the following influence a leader's style of leadership: (i) Task?; and (ii) Subordinates?
2) Basing your discussion on the Islamic perspective of leadership, explain why is it often unhelpful to talk about leadership in terms of personal traits or personalities?
