Theory A: Preliminary Perspectives on an African Model of Leadership

Do the appreciative perspectives offered by David Cooperrider and his colleagues (Srivastvava, Cooperrider and Associates, 1990) reflect the same purpose and perhaps even orientation of the African community. Does the act of appreciation held to build and sustain meaningful relationships? Cooperrider and others offering an appreciative perspective suggest that this is the case (Bergquist and Mura, 2011; Bergquist, 2004).. Should appreciative perspectives be included in Theory A?

We can even point to more formal institutionally-based processes in most Western societies—such as the transfer of governmental power and graduation of students from a school, college or university. What about the ceremonial way in which judicial systems operate in many Western societies—including robes (and sometimes even wigs), the use of gavels and formal titles, and the presence of the judge sitting above everyone else on something called the “bench” (almost like a pedestal)? The work is even being done in a building called the “courthouse” and a room called the “court room.” Judicial systems are not very modern in sound or process. Perhaps ceremony and ritual ae required by all societies when dealing with conflict and injustice.

Somé (1999, p. 95) speaks directly to this issue in his own closing words regarding the nature of a caring and healing community—wherever it exists in the world:

These examples suggest that what is required for the maintenance and growth of a community is not corporate altruism or a government program, but a villagelike atmosphere that allows people to drop their masks. A sense of community grows where behavior is based on trust and where no one has to hide anything. There are certain human powers that cannot be unleashed without such a supportive atmosphere, powers such as the one that enables us to believe in ancestors and to believe in our ability to unlock potentials in ourselves and others far beyond what is commonly known. When an individual feels connected to an entire community, this connection can extend far beyond the living world. This suggests that a healthy connection with one another will spill over into a connection with the ancestors and with nature. Similarly, the struggle to connect in this world will extend itself to the Other World.

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