So much of my own experience of myself is that of intellectual epiphany, not necessarily always correct, but often self-satisfying. I feel like a 10-year-old, or a teenager – certain of my own absolute truth and intelligence with an ego-centered disregard for the wisdom of others in the face of my own. (Participant in the GTC Program)

This quote is one of several I have placed in this paper. Each one represents a space of illumination related to a particular …

Is Sex Necessary?—James Thurber

Dedicated to the James McGregor Burns Academy of Leadership

The following essay considers useful wisdom and knowledge for the practice, development, and study of leadership. Based on a conviction of the relevance of emergent science and classical humanities as well as ancient teachings, this meditation appreciates Integral Leadership theory as a model that celebrates theory—and, perhaps, helps redeem academe from the Humpty Dumpty reputation which does not do justice to the real-world intelligence and care …

Introduction

I have always been interested in the intangible, even ineffable aspects of life. This interest has guided a number of areas in my life, including my inquiries into leadership. I have sought to understand leadership from a view that focuses on the sense of space that some people are able to create and maintain, regardless of their formal role or position. From this, I will propose a definition of leadership as the act of opening space.

In order to …