Critical Analysis of Robert K. Greenleaf’s Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness

Abstract

This critical essay provides an in-depth critical analysis of Robert K. Greenleaf"s book entitled Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness. The reader is introduced to Greenleaf"s perspective, insight, and vivid analysis on the meaning of not only what it means to be an effective leader, but ultimately a "Servant Leader" and how the servant leader yields the most innovative, creative, and transformative results within professional, educational and a vast range of other community organizations within modern day society. More specifically, this essay illuminates key ideas on Greenleaf"s theory and perspective of leadership, characteristics of the servant leader, as well as listening skills and empathy of the servant leader. Ultimately, this essay strongly illuminates Greenleaf"s unique vision of a leader who creates a "we" centered environment within their organization, as well as inspires a seamless community of professionals working "together" to complete a common goal.