Just a Thought: Another theory of leadership arose in the second half of the 20th century based on systems science. Systems science seeks to understand the dynamics of the whole and its parts. It understands that all systems have structure and purpose and exist in states of constant disequilibrium and change. Each system is made of subsystems that function together toward the fulfillment of the purposes of the whole and each part. In this theory leadership is not an office, position, or role of an individual; it is a function of the organism. Those in positions of authority must learn to use the resources available to them to provide what is needed for the organization/organism to thrive. Leadership is the function of resourcing others and overseeing the processes of resourcing. Leadership creates the conditions in which others can contribute to their fullest potential. The power of this theory lies in its recognition of the complexities of individuals and social systems; it does not reduce leadership to personality traits and behavioral patterns. The bane of this theory lies in those same complexities which make it difficult to master and therefore of limited practical application. Never-the-less, since the church is a living organism, the body of Christ (see especially I Corinthians 12 & Ephesians 4) whose members have varying gifts for the edification of the body, systems science has much to offer toward understanding how effective leadership works. JDJ #178
Posted on: Wed, 26 Jun 2013 10:54:56 +0000
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