A Definition and Illustration of Democratic Leadership

Abstract

Renewed calls for demaracy make it imperative that we understand the nature of democratic lcadcrship. Existing definitions of dcmwrstic lcadcrship are inconsistent and inadequate, so this essay provides s clear delinilion that applies lo social groups both large and small. As defined herein, democratic leadership is conceptually distind from positions of authority; rather, it is delined as the performance o f lhree lunctions: distributing responsibility among the membership, empowering group members. and aiding the group's dccisian-making process. Many, most, or all members of a group serve these functions, regularly exchanging the roles of leader and follower. A limited number of practical and moral considerations are identified for asesing the appropriateness of the democratic leadership model for dinerent groups. In sddilian, thc National lssucs Forums program is used to illustrale the model. and suggestions are made lor future research on democratic leadership. K E Y WORDS: democratic leadership; democracy; panicipalian; decision making; facilitation.Across the globe, the tumultuous political events of the past 3 years have raised hopes for the creation and revitalization of democratic institutions. In some countries, dictatorships have crumbled and new governments have crawled from the rubble. In others democratic opposition movements have gained strength, courage, and international recognition. Emboldened citizens in China, Czechoslovakia, Namibia, El Salvador, and elsewhere have organized to promote democratic social change, and new political par-

IJELM 4(2) July 2016

“…Therefore, they motivate workers towards effective job performance for goal achievement by ensuring effective communication in the establishment. In line with Lussier (2010), Gastil (1994) and White (1982) To cite this article: Padron, Y. and Waxman, H.C. (2016). Investigating principals' knowledge and perceptions of second language programs for English language learners.…”

“…Also, in line with Gastil (1994) democratic leaders in their job performance were found to distribute responsibilities, empower subordinates and allow their inputs in decision making process. Therefore, they are consultative in their communication styles.…”

Lean production and business performance: influences of leadership styles

“…The democratic attributes also can actually prevent from worst extremes of social conflicts [6]. Although democracy has been defined, there is no clear and well-developed definition of the term [12].…”

“…The advantage that can be gained through democratic style is that the group members can act as leaders, even though they have no formal authority [12]. This is to allow for more participation and create an open discussion within the leader and group members.…”

“…Democratic leadership concerned with giving others the authority to lead [16]. It is a positive characteristic of leadership, especially in lean manufacturing because as mentioned, it opens for more discussion and problem-solving [12]. It could result in better desirable outcomes and independent followers are produced.…”