Are Leaders Born or Are They Made?

by Kets De Vries, Manfred F. R.; Engellau, Elisabet

• ISBN13: 9781855753150
• ISBN10: 1855753154
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2004-07-01
• Publisher: KARNAC BOOKS

Summary

What makes a great leader? Can leadership be learned or are great leaders born and not made? Manfred Kets de Vries answers these questions, and many more, in his innovative and fresh look at the timeless theme of effective leadership. His engaging study of the life of Alexander the Great, the charismatic leader who created an empire that spanned most of the ancient world, provides an in-depth look at the psychodynamics of leadership that will be of use to contemporary leaders in business and politics, and to consulting and training organizations. In the first part of the book, the author weaves the fascinating tale of Alexander's life, whilst highlighting his considerable leadership skills. He then analyses Alexander's personality and behavior from a clinical perspective to demonstrate the psychological forces that shaped those leadership qualities. He looks at the key facets of Alexander's leadership technique in detail, as a practical demonstration of effective leadership, and concludes by cataloguing Alexander's strengths and, just as importantly, his weaknesses for the vital lessons in leadership. In this way, Manfred Kets de Vries creates a compelling vision of leadership that no one can afford to ignore. Lavishly illustrated, this exquisite volume is a joy to read, provoking both introspection and inspiration in the minds of its readers. Vital for all managers and management consultants, MBA students, and all concerned with effective leadership.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations	xi
About the Authors	xiii
Preface	xvii
Introduction	xxi
PART I: HISTIOGRAPHY
Setting the stage	1	(10)
Creating a war machine	11	(6)
Family turmoil	17	(6)
A strategic genius	23	(14)
Administering an empire	37	(6)
Striving for the ``Endless Ocean''	43	(10)
PART II: LEADERSHIP
The management of meaning	53	(8)
Entering the inner theatre of the king	61	(32)
The aftermath	93	(4)
Leadership lessons from Alexander the Great	97	(6)
Notes	103	(2)
References	105	(4)
Index	109