Dispersed Democratic Leadership Revisited

Abstract

This book began by observing that most democratic theorists have difficulty in articulating a proper role for leadership, largely because none among democratic equals has any innate or inherent right to rule over others. Democracy requires good leadership if it is to function effectively, yet the very idea of leadership seems to conflict with democracy's egalitarian ethos. In practice, democracy's tendency is not to eliminate leadership but to multiply it and disperse it throughout society to a rather extraordinary degree. There are many unique opportunities — as well as constraints — that leaders confront in negotiating the demands of their specific offices within the larger expectations of a democratic regime. This chapter reflects on these contributions and their implications.