Journal Assignment 1
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Management
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Feb 20, 2024
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LEADERSHIP JOURNAL ONE
1
Leadership Journal One
Reginald Mencer
Liberty University
LEADERSHIP JOURNAL ONE
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Introduction
Exploring the dynamics of power within leadership and its ethical implications is a subject of significant interest. Lord Acton's famous assertion about power's corruptive influence prompts us to consider how power can compromise moral integrity. Additionally, there's growing recognition of how subordinates might be influenced by their superiors' power and vice versa. Ethical scandals in sports leadership highlight the urgent need for leaders to address systemic issues and uphold integrity. The discussion about equal opportunity in sports leadership
roles challenges traditional ideas about gender equality in leadership. Reflecting on personal leadership role models offers valuable insights into the qualities and values that inspire and guide
individuals in leadership positions. These topics help us understand the complexities of leadership and the ethical responsibilities it entails.
Corruption in Leadership and Power
Findings
The findings from the reading on the suggestion of Lord Acton, “power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely” (Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. 2018. pg. 101) which is found to be true. There are various ways in which this can happen. There are influence tactics that can be used to threaten subordinates as well the need for power which can overcome an individual who is seeking power. There are two types of power described as a need for power: personalized power and socialized power (Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. 2018). Those seeking personalized power are those who tend to become corrupted by power
because they are selfish and do not have the proper self control to keep themselves in check when leading others whereas socialized power is taking on more of a we are in this together
LEADERSHIP JOURNAL ONE
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approach. Another type of power is coercive power which can be used positively or negatively. One example provided of how coercive power has been used negatively is that of Jim Jones, the cult leader who lead his followers to commit group suicide due to their intimidation of him as a leader and his drive for need to control and assume total power (Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. 2018). This is also an example of how a subordinate can be corrupted by a superior's power. Jim Jones’ followers were reliant on his power, persuasion, and punishments to
keep them in line thus making them complicit in accepting the act of suicide. Coercive power can also be used by subordinates who want to corrupt a leader. They can use it to threaten or intimidate a leader’s decisions to change or bend the leader’s behavior to their will. Subordinates
can also do this through expert power (Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. 2018) especially if the leader is new and does not possess the knowledge but the subordinates do, they can use this to their advantage and become corrupted by this sense of power. Power and corruption exist in all facets of the world and those who possess it can fall within a leader or subordinate role. There are cases in which power and corruption has led to scandal within the sports world
that need to be addressed by the respective leaders. An example of an unethical scandal involves the University of Colorado at Boulder's athletic department. They faced scrutiny for engaging in improper recruiting practices by taking an 18-year-old minor to a strip club. This incident prompted the university to implement stricter guidelines for recruiting prospective student athletes (
Martin, K. L., & Christy, K. 2010)
. Another major sports scandal happened when both the Olympic and Paralympic teams of Russia were embroiled in what is now known as the 'Russian Doping Scandal' (RDS). This scandal unfolded just before the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games. The RDS involved widespread doping practices within the Russian teams,
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tarnishing the integrity of international sports competitions. The scandal shook the world of sports and raised serious questions about the fairness and transparency of athletic competitions (
Dowling, M., Harris, S., & Washington, M. 2022)
.
Conclusion
I have learned from the findings that power tends to corrupt, as suggested by Lord Acton's famous assertion. The readings shed light on various ways in which this corruption can manifest, from personalized power driven by selfish motives to socialized power rooted in collaboration and shared responsibility. Coercive power, when wielded negatively, can have devastating consequences, as evidenced by historical examples like Jim Jones and his cult followers. The intertwining of power and corruption extends beyond leaders to include subordinates who may use their influence to manipulate those in positions of authority. This discussion underscores the importance of addressing systemic issues and upholding integrity in leadership roles, especially within the realm of sports where scandals like the Russian Doping Scandal have rocked the foundation of fair competition. By examining these ethical challenges and their impact on leadership, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of power dynamics and the responsibilities that come with holding positions of authority. It is imperative for leaders to confront these issues head-on and strive for transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of their roles.
Leadership Experience
Equal Opportunity Leadership
Some roles are often seen as more fitting for either men or women, particularly in the context of leadership positions. While there is a fair chance for both men and women to compete for leadership roles, certain positions may still require this competition. Despite strides toward
LEADERSHIP JOURNAL ONE
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gender equality in leadership, there remain societal perceptions about which genders are better suited for specific roles. However, it's crucial to recognize that equal opportunity competition between males and females is essential for fostering diversity and inclusivity in organizations. For example, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, widely known as RBG, was a prominent figure in American legal history and a champion of gender equality. Ginsburg attended Cornell University and later Harvard Law School, where she faced discrimination as one of the few women in her class. Despite the challenges, she excelled academically and transferred to Columbia Law School, where she graduated at the top of her class. Ginsburg's legal career focused on fighting gender-
based discrimination and advocating for women's rights. In 1993, she became the second woman
to serve on the United States Supreme Court (Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. 2018). Throughout her tenure, Ginsburg played a pivotal role in landmark cases concerning gender equality, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ rights, leaving a lasting impact on American jurisprudence. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of activists and legal scholars striving for a more just and equitable society.
Leadership Role Model
The two individuals I look up to as leadership role models are my father and Coach Deion Sanders. I admire them for their remarkable capacity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, or age. They lead not only by setting a strong example but also with compassion and a genuine desire to see others succeed. My father and Coach Deion
Sanders embody qualities of empathy, inclusivity, and encouragement, which inspire me to strive
for similar values in my own leadership journey. In 1 Peter 5:2 it says, “Be shepherds of God’s
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flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.” Conclusion
In conclusion, my examination of power dynamics in leadership underscores Lord Acton's assertion that power tends to corrupt. The research reveals how various forms of power, from personalized to socialized, can lead to ethical compromises and negative consequences. Coercive power, exemplified by historical figures like Jim Jones, demonstrates the peril of unchecked authority and its potential impact on both leaders and subordinates. Addressing systemic issues and maintaining integrity in leadership roles is paramount, particularly in light of
scandals like the Russian Doping Scandal, which undermine the fairness of sports competitions. By embracing transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct, leaders can navigate the complexities of power dynamics and uphold the principles of fairness and justice. Moreover, promoting equal opportunity competition in leadership roles challenges gender stereotypes and fosters diversity and inclusivity in organizations. Ruth Bader Ginsburg's legacy as a champion of
gender equality serves as a powerful inspiration for aspiring leaders, embodying qualities of empathy, inclusivity, and unwavering commitment to justice. My father and Coach Deion Sanders exemplify these values in their leadership, inspiring me to emulate their compassion and
dedication to serving others in my own leadership journey.
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Reference Dowling, M., Harris, S., & Washington, M. (2022). When a ban is not a ban: Institutional
work and the Russian doping scandal. Journal of Sport Management
, 36
(5), 433–445.
Hughes, R. L., Ginnett, R. C., & Curphy, G. J. (2018). Leadership: Enhancing the Lessons of Experience
.
Martin, K. L., & Christy, K. (2010). The rise and impact of high profile spectator sports on American higher education. Journal of Issues in Intercollegiate Athletics
, 2010
, 1–15. https://www.cabdirect.org/abstracts/20113058278.html
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