Public Values Leadership: Striving to Achieve Democratic Ideals

Public Values Leadership is a book that explores leadership that serves public values, focusing on the collective good and fundamental rights rather than profit, organizational benefit, or personal gain. It differs from other types of organizational leadership and requires a commitment to pragmatism, a deep skepticism about government versus market stereotypes, and a genuine belief in the fundamental importance of partnerships and alliances. The book argues for a mutable leadership that suggests that different people are leaders at different times, and that ideas about natural leaders or all-purpose leaders are off the mark. It is highly personal and persuasive, motivating readers to think systematically about their own values and how these can be translated into effective leadership.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2021
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

In a world where private gain and corporate profits often take precedence, what if we shifted our focus to a different goal for leadership? What if we aimed to prioritize public values as the driving force behind our leaders?

Leadership is a multifaceted concept that encompasses a wide range of roles and approaches. However, most studies on leadership tend to overlook two crucial aspects: why individuals choose to lead and where they are leading us. In Public Values Leadership, Barry Bozeman and Michael M. Crow delve into the realm of leadership that serves public values, emphasizing values that prioritize the collective good and fundamental rights rather than profit, organizational benefit, or personal gain. While nearly everyone agrees on core public values, such as freedom, opportunity, health, and security, there is less consensus on how to achieve them, particularly in the era of increased social and political fragmentation.

To address this challenge, Bozeman and Crow draw on their extensive experience as higher education leaders. They explore the question of how to attain universally agreed-upon public values, presenting conversations and interviews with ten well-known leaders who have achieved these objectives. These leaders share their leadership styles in detail, offering valuable insights into the strategies and approaches that have led to their success. Additionally, the book includes a series of in-depth case studies that showcase public values leadership and accomplishment.

Public values leadership can only succeed if it is grounded in pragmatism, a deep skepticism about government versus market stereotypes, and a genuine belief in the importance of partnerships and alliances. Bozeman and Crow argue for a mutable leadership approach, which recognizes that different individuals can be leaders at different times, and that ideas about natural leaders or all-purpose leaders are outdated. They motivate readers, including students of public policy administration, by highlighting the potential for positive change that can be brought about by leaders who prioritize public values.

In conclusion, Public Values Leadership offers a fresh perspective on leadership that challenges the traditional focus on private gain and corporate profits. By prioritizing public values, we can create a more equitable and sustainable world where the well-being of society is at the forefront of decision-making. This book provides valuable insights and strategies for leaders who are committed to making a difference and building a better future for all.

Weight: 635g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421442013