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TRADITIONAL THEORIES OF LEADERSHIP FROM A CRITICAL PERSPECTIVE

ABSTRACT

In order to understand the theoretical construction of leadership and the transformations that have occurred in the field of administration, this article uses Critical Theory as an epistemological support to analyze concepts and historical conditions of Traditional Theories of Leadership. Specifically, we investigate the following leadership theories: trait approach, style approach, contingency approach, and new leadership approach. Through qualitative research using the hermeneutic-dialectical method, we concluded that leadership theories have naturalized managerial interests without considering the conflictual nature of organizations. This naturalization process was critically reflected upon in this article, questioning the concept of leadership and its implications. We found that theories that configure themselves as Traditional Theories disregard the historical and conflictual context of the phenomenon, producing instrumental, naturalized rationalities in service of capital. The critical approach proposed in this study is a strong point, offering a parameter for empirical research based on critical organizational studies.

Keywords:
Traditional Management Theory; Leadership; Hermeneutics-Dialectics; Critical Organizational Studies

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