Napoleon Bonaparte is often referred to as one of the most effective military leaders. According to researchers, the French leader was operating based on the techniques used within the autocratic style (Weiss, 2020). At the same time, current knowledge refers to soldiers as focused on the overall environment within the group rather than the characteristics of the leader (Jansen & Delahaij, 2019). This contrasts with Napoleon’s use of charisma to ensure a high level of satisfaction, motivation, and dedication among soldiers (Mériade & Sales, 2020). While the two methods are different, current leaders use some of the same strategies. Based on current evidence, Napoleon’s charismatic style can be applied currently while autocratic methods create resistance.
- Charismatic leaders are effective in conflict mitigation in contrast with autocratic ones.
- Ethics are rarely addressed by autocratic leaders but sometimes addressed by charismatic ones.
- National power is ensured by charismatic leaders through motivation, while autocratic ones use fear and psychological pressure.
References
Jansen, M. M., & Delahaij, R. (2019). Leadership acceptance through the lens of Social Identity theory: A case study of military leadership in Afghanistan. Armed Forces & Society, 46(4), 657-676.
Mériade, L., & Sales, J. M. (2020). Emergency management in organizations? The answers provided by Napoleon Bonaparte. Revue Internationale De Psychosociologie Et De Gestion Des Comportements Organisationnels, 26(64), 165.
Weiss, G. (2020). 6. Liberation and empire from the revolution to napoleon. Captives and Corsairs, 118-130.