An ancient Chinese interpretation of distributed leadership

Drawing on the Huainanzi (The Master of Huainan), this article delineates an ancient Chinese understanding of distributed leadership. Accordingly, distributed leadership advocates the distribution of task that combines responsibility and authority; and the harmonious co-existence of the empowerment...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inAsian philosophy Vol. 34; no. 3; pp. 220 - 234
Main Author Tan, Charlene
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Abingdon Routledge 02.07.2024
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Subjects
Authority
Chinese culture
Chinese philosophy
distributed leadership
Huainanzi
Leadership
Responsibilities
responsibility
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Summary:Drawing on the Huainanzi (The Master of Huainan), this article delineates an ancient Chinese understanding of distributed leadership. Accordingly, distributed leadership advocates the distribution of task that combines responsibility and authority; and the harmonious co-existence of the empowerment of others and positional authority. The distribution of responsibility and authority is undertaken by an exemplary leader who inspires others through one's moral character and influence. Furthermore, distributed leadership infuses responsibility with positional, social and moral authority; harmonises the personal and interpersonal qualities of leaders; and reinforces rational persuasion with role-modelling by the leaders. The notion of distributed leadership that is informed by the Huainanzi contributes to the existing literature by addressing a prominent challenge and a prevailing misconception concerning this leadership construct. In addition, the proposed account guides leaders to revamp organisational structure, implement staff deployment policies and lead on the basis of fairness and moral leadership.
ISSN:0955-2367
1469-2961
DOI:10.1080/09552367.2024.2309773