This book provides a fresh approach to our understanding of how leaders in all types of settings can enhance both the practical and moral basis of their use of power.
Tired of reading about how leaders abuse their power?
Bunker proposes that leaders focus on the power they have to positively affect the lives of those who report to them or are in their sphere of influence. Specifically, he postulates that subordinate competence and participation at work will be enhanced by considering their three fundamental human needs: the need for agency, for growth and for justice. Each concept is elaborated with support from both social science theory and research and moral philosophy. The book is rich with examples from real world organizations where leaders using these criteria include them in the strategic goals of the company and are successful in the marketplace.
Ed Schein says: "This is a detailed and thorough study of the psychological relationships and interpersonal processes that occur between bosses and subordinates"
Barry Oshrey says: "Bunker illuminates brilliantly the sensitivities of the subordinate in inter-level relationships while proposing concrete strategies for sustaining subordinate engagement."
Uses: As a supplementary text in courses in OB, leadership, power. With coaching clients and executive groups. As a good background read for people just entering management or consulting.
Available in paperback, hardback, and as an ebook on Amazon and online booksellers.
(Douglas Bunker was an organizational psychologist who combined academic appointments at Harvard Business School and the University at Buffalo with an active consulting practice. He completed this book before his death in 2017)
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Barbara B. Bunker
Professor Emerita, University at Buffalo
(716) 881-2166
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