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The evolution of leadership: Past insights, present trends, and future directions

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  • Liden, Robert C.
  • Wang, Xing
  • Wang, Yue

Abstract

We first review leadership research that has been dominant before and after the Journal of Business Research was established fifty-one years ago, along with a discussion of those approaches that have continued to attract research attention. Next, we discuss moral approaches to leadership, including authentic, ethical, and servant leadership. We address criticism of these and other approaches, especially concerns about the way leadership styles are measured. Furthermore, we provide coverage of current trends in leadership research, such as studying the dark side of seeming positive leadership approaches, examinations of the importance of followership in the study of leadership, as well as research that explores the effects of leadership from a leader-centric perspective. Finally, we offer directions for future leadership research, such as integrating leader power and authority with leadership approaches and developing ways of addressing criticism that has been leveled against leadership research.

Suggested Citation

  • Liden, Robert C. & Wang, Xing & Wang, Yue, 2025. "The evolution of leadership: Past insights, present trends, and future directions," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 186(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:186:y:2025:i:c:s014829632400540x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2024.115036
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