Foundations of Ethical & Creative Leadership

Catalog description

Foundations of Ethical and Creative Leadership is an introduction to classic and contemporary theories and models of leadership. The course focuses on (1) interdisciplinary approaches to leadership, (2) the intersection of leadership, ethics, and creativity; (3) the historical, philosophical, and moral contexts of leadership; and (4) leader/follower relationships in the attainment of organizational and societal goals. Although the course introduces all the areas of leadership studies, it centers on the main ECL approach where leadership is a relational and partnering process with leaders and followers switching roles and empowering each other in pursuits of common goals. The course focuses on learners’ ability to analyze and critique ethical dilemmas from their own leadership experiences, placing them in modern social and cultural contexts that inform leadership decisions. The class introduces Western vs. non-Western views on leadership, “classics” foundations, traditional theories, and contemporary and culturally authentic models. Learners question current leadership knowledge and debate future leadership, ethics, and creativity intersections. Special attention is given to followership and responsibility concepts and a view of social justice as a global effort These perspectives are discussed in relation to the dark side of leadership and leadership in the context of global crises.