High School History Recap
The High School History Recap podcast was started by two passionate teachers from South Africa who realised the value of taking history teaching and learning beyond the confines of the textbook and classroom. Their recipe includes constructive conversations with learners and experts alike. William and Colin investigate topics covered in most history classrooms but also ask questions about how best to teach and learn these topics. They cover the "what to teach", "how to teach", "how we learn", and "thinking tools" of history teaching and learning. Find them on any podcast player platform like Apple or Spotify. Let's share the love for history. Find us on Twitter @WilliamHPalk or @C_duPlessis. Our email address is highschoolhistoryrecap@gmail.com.
High School History Recap
#6 The Charismatic Leadership Style of Albert Luthuli with Prof Benda Hofmeyr
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William H Palk and Prof Benda Hofmeyr
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Season 4
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Episode 6
About a month ago, the University of Pretoria celebrated the life of Chief Albert Luthuli. At these celebrations, Prof Benda Hofmeyr gave a presentation on the philosophical legacy of Albert Luthuli with specific emphasis on his charismatic leadership style.
What we discuss:
- Why did a philosophy professor take an interest in leadership styles and specifically Albert Luthuli?
- How does a philosophical approach to studying leadership differ from the historical approach?
- What is meant with a charismatic leadership style?
- Why did you base your interpretation of charismatic leadership on the writings of Max Weber?
- How did Luthuli balance his authority over others with his ability to charm them?
- Is charisma a personality trait or quality or something we see in the actions of a leader?
- Would stability not be a better leadership quality than charm?
- Did apartheid South Africa and the ANC foster Luthuli's charismatic leadership style?
- Are some people just naturally more charismatic than others?
- How do we identify a leader as charismatic rather than just merely effective?
- Why does charismatic leadership emerge in the setting of a movement for change?
- Is charismatic leadership something of the past?
- Did Albert Luthuli have a specific brand of charisma?
- What is the legacy of Albert Luthuli's charismatic leadership style?
- How close does the charismatic leader come to the idea of the philosopher king?
If you want to read more of Benda's work, visit here website here.
Find us on Twitter @WilliamHPalk or @C_duPlessis.