Evan Dutmer

Abstract: James MacGregor Burns, often called the founder of contemporary Leadership Studies, remarked that good leadership was a teaching act and that good leaders taught new leaders. In addition, Burns's focus on the moral dimensions of transformational leadership inspired an entire generation of scholars and continues to influence the resurgence of virtues- and character-based theories of leadership. These two central dimensions of transformational leadership—the vital role of education and emphasis on virtuous character—have ancient roots. In this study, I explore the central roles of education and virtuous character in good leadership as exemplified in both Burns and key virtue theorists in the history of philosophy. The roots of a humanistic, proto-transformational leadership paradigm can be found in thinkers as diverse as Mengzi, Cicero, Miskawayh, and Erasmus. My project shows the continued relevance of historical philosophers for the study, education, and practice of transformational leadership.