New Definitions
The emerged new definitions for the troubled phenomenon are in time to provided clarity to the field and the world. To place leadership where it should be after the uncovering of its grand theory (LGT), there is a need to define some related terms based on scientific and empirical evidence with its relative principles. The new definitions are another step in the paradigm shift from the anecdotal to a phenomenon well grounded.
Definitions are important for the sense-making, but all too often for leadership, they reflect the usage of the term in society/context and do not (a) state or set forth the meaning; (b) explain or identify the nature or essential qualities of; (c) fix or lay down clearly and definitely; specify distinctly; (d) define responsibilities. To date, we have not found such descriptions associated with leadership. Merriam-Webster states that “[i]f we define a word it does not mean that we have approved or sanctioned it.” The new definitions for leadership stemming from leadership’s grand theory, science, and empirical evidence are in the Table below:
Exploring the Descriptions Further
According to the new definitions, a leader is one who practices leadership. Leadership is a complex multiple-triadic relational practice of right-influence and or right-inspiration toward purposes and transcendence. According to the nature of the craft of carpentry, one who practices the particulars of the craft is fittingly called a carpenter. It is evident in the work or practice of the practitioner. The fact this logic has not held for leadership in the past contributes to its current troubled state.
Some call heads of groups of people who conspire to murder others, a leader. In one infamous case, the mass murderer called himself a leader. Such terms, descriptions, and acts defy the nature of leadership then, and more so today because of LGT. When the multiple-triadic relational dimensions are not functional, there is degradation, harm, and eventual failure. The same was the result for everyone who called themselves a leader and held a practice of wrong influence. A deeper explanation of the new definitions are available in greater detail on this site or though the Leadership’s Grand Theory Podcast.
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