Leadership Traits: Annotated Bibliography and Thesis

Thesis statement: Humility is the necessary foundation for effective leadership for Christians in public leadership. In this paper, I will argue that traits such as integrity, authenticity, communication skills, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are complementary for effective leadership, while traits like narcissism and remoteness are not desirable for Christians in public leadership. Additionally, positive traits like the ones discussed here can positively influence decision-making through the lens of the Rational Actor or Rational Choice models, while negative traits can negatively influence decision-making.

Annotated Bibliography

Brennan, G., & Brooks, M. (2014). Rational choice approaches to leadership.RAW Rhodes &

P.t Hart (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Political Leadership, 161-175.

This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of rational choice approaches to leadership. The authors examine the assumptions, methodologies, and theoretical frameworks that underpin the rational choice approach to leadership. They also provide a critical analysis of the strengths and limitations of this approach. The authors argue that rational choice theory provides a useful framework for understanding leadership decision-making in complex situations, but it has its limitations, particularly in explaining the social and psychological factors that influence leadership behavior. They suggest that future research should consider combining rational choice theory with other theoretical frameworks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of leadership. This chapter is valuable for providing a useful framework for analyzing leadership behavior in different contexts.

Irving, J. A., & Strauss, M. L. (2019).Leadership in Christian perspective: Biblical foundations

and contemporary practices for servant leaders. Baker Academic.

Irving and Strauss explore the concept of Christian leadership in this book. The authors argue that Christian leadership is based on the biblical principles of servant leadership and that Christian leaders should prioritize serving others over personal gain. They analyze the biblical foundations of servant leadership and examine the practical applications of this leadership style in contemporary contexts. The book includes examples of Christian leaders who have demonstrated servant leadership principles in their practices. The authors also address some of the challenges and ethical dilemmas that Christian leaders may face, and they offer guidance on how to navigate these issues.

Malphurs, A. (2003).Being leaders: The nature of authentic Christian leadership. Baker Books.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of authentic Christian leadership. The author argues that effective Christian leadership requires a deep commitment to God, a willingness to serve others, and a clear sense of purpose. The book offers practical advice for Christian leaders on how to develop these qualities and apply them in their work. The author argues that authentic Christian leadership is based on a strong sense of calling and a deep commitment to serving others. Ultimately, the author suggests that leaders must be commited to biblical principles, have a heart for people, and demonstrate a willingness to take risks for God.

McIntosh, G. L., & Samuel Sr, D. (2007).Overcoming the dark side of leadership: How to

become an effective leader by confronting potential failures. Baker Books.

This book explores the "dark side" of leadership, including paranoia, dysfunction, narcissism, arrogance, and other negative traits that can hinder effective leadership. The authors argue that effective leadership requires self-awareness, humility, and a willingness to confront one's own flaws....…this book, arguing that effective leadership is not just about skills or techniques but is rooted in character. The author defines leadership as a character-driven endeavor and offers practical advice for developing the habits of effective leaders. The book draws from biblical principles and offers a faith-based perspective on leadership development. This work is helpful for Christians seeking to integrate their faith into their leadership practice and for anyone interested in a values-based approach to leadership development.

Van Dierendonck, D. (2011). Servant leadership: A review and synthesis.Journal of

management,37(4), 1228-1261.

Van Dierendonck provides a comprehensive review and synthesis of the servant leadership theory in this article. The study examines the historical and theoretical background of the concept and explores its dimensions, antecedents, and outcomes. The article concludes that servant leadership is a promising approach to leadership, with benefits for both leaders and followers. The study is valuable for those interested in understanding the concept of servant leadership and its potential impact on organizations.

Zyuzev, N. (2022). Altruism and rational choice theory.The American Sociologist,53(1), 44-52.

Zyuzev examines the ompatibility of altruism and rational choice theory in this article. The study explores the relationship between self-interest and altruistic behavior and discusses the limitations of rational choice theory in explaining the motivations of altruistic behavior. The article concludes that while rational choice theory can offer some insights into altruistic behavior, it is not sufficient to fully explain it. The study is useful for those interested in understanding the motivations of altruistic behavior and the limitations of rational choice theory in explaining human behavior.