Description
Book SynopsisMaking a case for a reflexive approach to leadership, the authors draw upon decades of carrying out in-depth studies of professionals trying to do leadership. Through interviews with managers and their subordinates, getting a good understanding of organizational context, and critically interpreting their observations considering both leadership theories and a wealth of other perspectives, their celebration of reflexivity is used to question dominant leadership thinking.
Considering and challenging various departures from lines of reasoning results in a book that draws upon rich empirical material and which has a number of new, provocative, critical and constructive ideas that help to develop sharper and more thoughtful thinking and practice - both in academic and practical contexts.
Suitable for leadership and organisation courses at upper-level undergraduate and upwards (including MBA-classes and Executive Education) and a thought provoking read for practit
Trade ReviewThere are not many books on leadership that combine critical reflection, rigorous scholarship and a wide range of material. There are even fewer from authors that have actually studied leadership in situ and have something innovative to say on the topic. This book is one of those rare creatures: a treasure trove for the uninitiated and the expert alike: read it!
-- Keith Grint
This book on reflexive leadership by three deeply-experienced scholars challenges the taken-for-granted assumptions and language of the leadership industry. The authors call for careful, critical thought about how to organize workplaces is a refreshing departure from the "unreflective mindlessness" that characterizes much of the celebratory literature on leadership.
-- Robert Jackall
Reflexive Leadership challenges you to think differently about leadership. It is a refreshing break from the shibboleths of today′s leadership approaches. It challenges you to clarify what leadership is and is not--and motivates you to respond in kind. An excellent read for scholars and practitioners alike! -- Gail Fairhurst
This is an exceptionally well written book. It takes us beyond the impossible fantasies about leadership that we so often find in the literature. Using fascinating examples throughout it offers insights that are often surprising and always useful. Highly recommended!
-- Professor Dennis Tourish
Table of ContentsChapter 1: Leadership: The Need for a Reflexive Approach Chapter 2: On Reflection and Reflexivity Chapter 3: Perspectives on Leadership Chapter 4: Leadership Beyond Ideology, Harmony and All-inclusiveness: The Case for a More Nuanced View Chapter 5: Leadership and Organizational Culture Chapter 6: Followership and Its Alternatives Chapter 7: Modes of Organizing Chapter 8: Leadership Varieties: The 5P Framework Chapter 9: Constraints on Leadership in Managerial Work Chapter 10: Alignment or Misfit in Leadership Constructions? Chapter 11: Reflexive Group Work on Leadership and Its Alternatives Chapter 12: Reflexive and Unreflexive Leadership Chapter 13: The Reflexive Follower (LIP) Chapter 14: Conclusions: Reflexivity, Trap-awareness and a Suggested Way Forward
