# Beyond Leaderism: Reframing Leadership Through Relational Dynamics Scholars argue for shifting leadership research from individual behaviors to contextual relationships. - **Source:** [Journal of Management Studies](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14676486) - **Published:** 2026-11-04 - **Topic:** [careers](https://brifing.si/c/careers) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/3140a608-db5e-4327-8a7b-d43627749099 ## Challenging Great Man Theories Historical leadership research has long centered on the 'Great Man' theory, focusing exclusively on individual leader behaviors. This paradigm assumes that specific traits or actions define effective leadership. However, recent academic critiques suggest this individualistic approach limits our understanding of how leadership actually functions within complex, modern organizational environments and diverse stakeholder groups. ## Five Core Theoretical Assumptions The current literature rests on five problematic assumptions, including leaderism, individualistic attribution, and behavioral universalism. These pillars suggest that leadership is a singular, democratized, and individual-level phenomenon. By questioning these foundations, researchers aim to expose the limitations of viewing leadership as a series of isolated actions performed by one person. ## Shifting the Analytical Focus Scholars propose a fundamental pivot in the unit of analysis, moving away from the individual leader toward relationships in action. This transition incorporates broader contexts and various stakeholders into the core of leadership study. By doing so, the focus shifts from observing isolated behaviors to understanding the dynamic interplay between people. ## Multidisciplinary Theoretical Foundations This proposed shift is built upon multidisciplinary foundations that prioritize levels of analysis and deep contextual grounding. Rather than treating leadership as a universal skill, this perspective acknowledges that effectiveness depends on the specific environment. This approach integrates diverse academic fields to create a more comprehensive framework for studying organizational influence. ## Integrating Episteme and Techné The authors argue that scientific knowledge, known as episteme, and skill development, or techné, remain disconnected in current research. By directing the spotlight toward relationships, these elements can be more tightly coupled. This integration ensures that leadership development is not just about learning behaviors but about mastering the art of contextual judgment. ## The Role of Phronesis Phronesis, or practical wisdom and contextual judgment, is essential for effective leadership in real-world scenarios. The current behavioral paradigm often overlooks this critical aspect by focusing on standardized actions. Emphasizing relationships allows leaders to apply nuanced judgment, adapting their approach based on the specific needs of their team and organization. ## Moving Beyond Individualism The critique of 85 years of research highlights the dangers of individual-level ontology in leadership studies. By centering on the individual, we ignore the collective nature of organizational success. Moving beyond this narrow scope allows for a more holistic view that accounts for the interconnectedness of all participants within a system. ## Future of Leadership Science Ultimately, the transition from leaders in action to leadership as relationships in action represents a necessary evolution. This shift promises to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application. Organizations that adopt this relational perspective may better navigate complex challenges by fostering collaboration rather than relying on individual heroics. ## Sources covering this story - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/joms.70176?af=R — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._