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The Democratic System of Leadership.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: The Democratic System of Leadership.
Authors: Freeman, Thomas J.
Peer Reviewed: N
Page Count: 14
Publication Date: 1975
Document Type: Reports - Research
Descriptors: Administrative Principles, Administrator Role, Decentralization, Decision Making, Definitions, Democratic Values, Leadership, Leadership Styles, Policy Formation
Abstract: Different researchers have suggested a variety of definitions for democratic leadership. As there is no one generally accepted definition, it is difficult to categorically characterize a style as democratic. Democracy in a pure form is based on the assumption that no member of the group is superior to other members. In operation, no organization exists as a pure democracy and no leadership can exemplify pure democracy. Society and organizations recognize the person with superior judgment and special skill. People may discuss and agree on directions of action, but detailed activities are left to those to whom authority over these activities has been delegated. In considering leadership styles, there is a question of how much focus will be attached to the leader. Decentralization is an extension of delegation. Delegation refers mainly to the granting of authority and the creation of responsibility. Decentralization is the situation that results from a systematic delegation of authority. Decentralization of leadership increases opportunity for development of leaders; it does not preclude centralization of goal-setting, funding, and policy-setting. (Author/JG)
Journal Code: RIEMAY1976
Entry Date: 1976
Accession Number: ED116271
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Different researchers have suggested a variety of definitions for democratic leadership. As there is no one generally accepted definition, it is difficult to categorically characterize a style as democratic. Democracy in a pure form is based on the assumption that no member of the group is superior to other members. In operation, no organization exists as a pure democracy and no leadership can exemplify pure democracy. Society and organizations recognize the person with superior judgment and special skill. People may discuss and agree on directions of action, but detailed activities are left to those to whom authority over these activities has been delegated. In considering leadership styles, there is a question of how much focus will be attached to the leader. Decentralization is an extension of delegation. Delegation refers mainly to the granting of authority and the creation of responsibility. Decentralization is the situation that results from a systematic delegation of authority. Decentralization of leadership increases opportunity for development of leaders; it does not preclude centralization of goal-setting, funding, and policy-setting. (Author/JG)