Evans Akpo

Author Brené Brown, in Dare to Lead,” emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and empathy in building strong communities (Brown, 2018). Brown posits that ethical leaders embrace vulnerability as a strength and cultivate empathy to forge deep connections with others (Brown, 2018). By creating spaces of inclusivity and authenticity, they lay the foundation for meaningful relationships and collective growth.

In the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Dr. Maya Angelou, a beacon of wisdom and resilience, exemplified the essence of ethical leadership through her unwavering commitment to social justice and unity (Angelou, 2015). As a poet, activist, and educator, Dr. Angelou inspired countless individuals to embrace diversity and celebrate the richness of human experience. Through her words and actions, she ignited a spirit of community that transcended boundaries and brought people together in solidarity.

In essence, ethical leaders serve as catalysts for community building, weaving the threads of compassion and understanding to create tapestries of unity and resilience. By embracing the principles of servant leadership and fostering empathy, they leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those they serve, transforming lives and shaping the fabric of society for generations to come.

Ethical leaders are distinguished by their unwavering commitment to serving the needs and interests of others, placing the well-being of their followers above their own self-interests.

An exemplary example of ethical leadership centered on serving others can be found in the actions of Dr. Héctor P. García, a prominent figure in Houston, Texas. Dr. García, a physician and civil rights activist, dedicated his life to serving marginalized communities, particularly Hispanic Americans. He founded the American GI Forum in 1948, advocating for the rights of Hispanic veterans and their families. Dr. García’s selfless dedication to serving others exemplifies the essence of ethical leadership, demonstrating a profound commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

Furthermore, scholars such as James Kouzes and Barry Posner, in their seminal work “The Leadership Challenge,” emphasize the importance of leaders serving others as a cornerstone of effective leadership. They assert, “Leadership is not about the leader; it’s about the followers and the outcomes they achieve together” (Kouzes & Posner, 2017, p. 56), highlighting the centrality of servant leadership in fostering collaboration and achieving shared goals.

In addition, Simon Sinek, in his book “Leaders Eat Last,” underscores the significance of leaders prioritizing the needs of their followers and creating environments of trust and cooperation. He states, “Great leaders sacrifice their own comfort— even their own survival—for the good of those in their care” (Sinek, 2014, p. 73), emphasizing the sacrificial nature of ethical leadership in service of others.

Moreover, Robert Greenleaf, the founder of the modern servant leadership movement, advocates for a paradigm shift from traditional hierarchical leadership models to servant leadership, where leaders prioritize the growth and development of their followers. He contends, “The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve” (Greenleaf, 1977, p. 27), highlighting the intrinsic motivation of ethical leaders to serve others.

In conclusion, ethical leaders exemplify the principle of serving others, embodying a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and selflessness in their leadership approach. Through their actions, they inspire trust, foster collaboration, and create environments where individuals can thrive and flourish.

In Peter Northouse’s seminal work “Leadership: Theory and Practice,” the concept of ethical leadership emerges as a foundational cornerstone, emphasizing the importance of integrity, fairness, and justice in guiding leaders’ actions. Among the cardinal virtues of ethical leadership, justice stands out as a beacon of moral clarity, calling upon leaders to uphold principles of fairness and equity in their decision-making processes.

Ethical leaders, as Northouse contends, are inherently just, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to treating all individuals with impartiality and respect. They strive to create environments where fairness reigns supreme, ensuring that every voice is heard, and every perspective is valued. This commitment to justice extends beyond mere compliance with rules and regulations; it reflects a deep-seated belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

An exemplary illustration of ethical leadership rooted in justice can be found in the actions of Mahatma Gandhi during India’s struggle for independence. Gandhi, renowned for his unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance and social justice, embodied the principles of ethical leadership in his quest for freedom and equality. He famously declared, “In matters of conscience, the law of the majority has no place” (Gandhi, 1961, p. 92), emphasizing the primacy of moral principles over mere legalistic considerations.

Moreover, Gandhi’s leadership was characterized by a profound sense of empathy and compassion for the oppressed, as he sought to address the systemic injustices perpetuated by colonial rule. His commitment to justice transcended national boundaries, inspiring movements for civil rights and social justice around the world.

In contemporary leadership contexts, the imperative of ethical leadership remains as vital as ever, with leaders across various domains called upon to uphold principles of justice and fairness. As Northouse aptly observes, “Ethical leadership involves making decisions that are fair and just for all concerned” (Northouse, 2018, p. 398), underscoring the centrality of justice in ethical leadership practice.

In conclusion, the concept of justice serves as a guiding principle for ethical leaders, imbuing their actions with a sense of moral purpose and responsibility. Through their unwavering commitment to fairness and equity, ethical leaders inspire trust, foster collaboration, and cultivate environments where individuals can flourish and thrive.