Nimitz and Goleman: Study of a Civilian Leadership Model
Abstract
Within weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz took command of the Pacific Fleet and held that command until the Allied Forces won the war in the Pacific almost 4 years later. Admiral Nimitz was selected for the position over 28 other senior admirals. He went on to hold the highest office in the U.S. Navy, the Chief of Naval Operations. Nimitz's ability as an effective leader throughout his career proves that his style of leadership can be a model for any military officer. The qualifications necessary to lead personnel in the Armed Forces has not changed since 1941, however, with the advent of information sharing on a global scale, today's military officers are exposed to a wide range of leadership styles. This study examines Dr. Daniel Goleman's civilian leadership model and compares it with Admiral Nimitz's military leadership style to see if Dr. Goleman's model is feasible for use in a military environment. Secondary research questions are as follows: (1) How do Goleman's six leadership styles (coercive, authoritative, affiliative, democratic, pacesetting, and coaching) relate to the six climate factors of flexibility, responsibility, standards, rewards, clarity, and commitment?; (2) What examples from Nimitz's career correspond to Goleman's civilian leadership model?; (3) Did Nimitz use any styles or approaches not addressed by Goleman's leadership model?; and (4) After comparing Goleman's model with Nimitz's style and taking into account current military leadership doctrine, is further exploration of civilian leadership models warranted?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA501661
Entities
People
- Derrick A. Dudash
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College