Charisma and Power: An X-Factor in Leadership?

This report discusses the possible relationship between the two elusive phenomena of charisma and power and whether they are important factors that every military leader must be cognizant of if he or she is to be successful. An in-depth analysis of charisma--the mystique includes historical background, delves deeply into the intricacies of the psychological aspects that occur between the leader and his followers, and discusses when and how the charismatic leader functions best in an organization. A discussion of power--the role it plays in leadership follows and is quite straightforward in detailing that leadership is plain and simple, the exercise of power. Power behavior and power relations between the leader and follower are scrutinized. Some very strong considerations are drawn about the two concepts and whether there is an advantage from understanding these two phenomena for the military leader.