In Chapter 7, I found the topic of Leadership: How groups Choose Leaders to very interesting. I think growing up, we all can relate to there being a leader of a group and I have always wondered, “ How does this person become a leader?” In the book, Fisher says that, “leadership is not a story of one member rising through the ranks to triumph because of natural ability or clever manipulation. Rather the leader is a matter of not making mistakes.” I found this point to be very clever because in my eyes he is saying that the leader is someone who is always correct and in some ways is seen as perfect. Another interesting point Fisher points out is, “ in the beginning, all members of the group are in contension for the leadership position (or positions). I guess I never have really seen or heard of being a leader as Fisher thinks it works out to be. At the same time, I know that some people really do consider the leader position in most parts of everyday life.
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You provided some interesting insights. I also thought the part about leadership was interesting. In my experience, there has always been a leader right from the beginning. I never realized that every group member was in contention in the beginning. In most of the groups I have been a part of it seems that the first person to talk or to get people involved becomes the leader. In a lot of cases, that person is me. I don't necessarily enjoy being the leader, however I do like the fact that I know that stuff is getting done. Regardless, I find Fisher's view interesting.
ReplyDeleteMorgan.Segall-
ReplyDeleteI hadn’t ever heard of leadership in the way that Fischer theorized it either. I feel like his theory kind of discredits individual ability. I know that you said that you find his theory interesting, but I am wondering if you agree with it?
If I were to choose a theory to side with, I think I would go with the early theorists who believed that personal characteristics play a big role in determining leadership. I don’t think these characteristics are necessarily innate (like self confidence and ability to handle stress), but are often taught to children at a young age. I’ve heard of kids being encouraged to “be the next president,” as they grow up. In my classes at SJSU I have seen the same people being leaders of groups over and over again in different classes. It’s hard to say that personal characteristics don’t play a role in determining leadership.
Your insight on Fisher's Leadership topic was very interesting. I too was not aware that all members in the group contend for the leadership role. Most groups I have been in there was always one individual willing to lead; no one was racing to get the leadership role, including myself. I prefer to take on some of the more passive roles. I agree with Digital Summer that his theory kind of discredits each individual's ability. There are individuals who are naturally talented and born to be leaders and then there are those who try real hard to lead and do a good job.
ReplyDeleteI am sure we can all relate to leaders who have made mistakes. How can a leader be CORRECT always?