Chapter 1 Ethics and Leadership in Islam Between Universalist Principles and Utilitarian Ends

Abstract

Religious ethics in Islam capture both aspects of universalism and utilitarianism, yet they are not constrained by these two approaches. A balanced ethical and effective leader is the one who balances between two major approaches to ethical thinking, as an extreme attachment to either ethical perspective is bound to face problems. Balanced leaders act based on a set of values and principles, but they are cognizant that actions influence people. I explain how ethical and effective leaders are those whose decisions and actions minimize harm, who pursue justice in all their affairs, and who implement what carries benefit to public interest (maslaha). Balanced leaders are also those who are able to display ihsan or benevolence in the way they conduct leadership actions in relation not only to their employees and subordinates but also in relation to all relevant stakeholders in their contexts.