Official Review: Proleptic Leadership on the Commons
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Official Review: Proleptic Leadership on the Commons
Proleptic Leadership On The Commons: Ushering In A New Global Order by Randal Joy Thompson is a book that explores the possibility of whether the commons constitutes a realistic phenomenon to transition from a capitalist society to a new commons-centric global order. The book also analyzes the role of leadership (if any) in the commons in this modern society as well as in a commons-centric society.
The writer starts by examining the history and evolution of the commons from antiquity to the present. Thompson then explicitly discusses commoning to ascertain the vision and values a commons-centric society may possess. Building on the foundations of the works of several scholars and activists, the writer then discusses how a transition to a commons-centric society may occur, as well as the challenges they may confront. The author then talks about commons-based leadership as she gives her take on the type of leadership that would be most appropriate in that society. Finally, we get to see the possibilities regarding whether the notions of the commons and commons movement possess enough potentials to bring about a new post-capitalist global order as the author provides some key changes, which the commons have stimulated on different levels.
I have come to appreciate Thompson’s ability as a deep thinker, having read her publication on leadership in international development. I was quick to pick up this book when I saw that it was written by her. She possesses a wealth of knowledge regarding leadership, having worked globally for several decades, and I am pleased I picked up this volume because I learned a lot of new theories while I read. That said, the fact that I was able to learn about fresh concepts effortlessly not only lauds the writer’s proficiency to conduct researches but also her ability to explain her findings. The first thing that impressed me was the way the author organized the book. It was structured in a way that even if you don’t have prior knowledge of the commons, you could follow the author's arguments.
Additionally, the flowcharts the author included in the book were not only refreshing to see, but they also allowed me a better understanding of the author's ideas. For example, when the author tried to explain the interrelationship between “future” and proleptic leadership, I could not comprehend it until I saw the flowchart. I am sure other readers will appreciate the diagrams as well. Another thing that will set this book apart from others is that there’s a lot of unique knowledge embedded in its pages, especially in part 3, where Thompson talked about leadership on the commons. I learned about the importance of leading one's self as a step in the right direction of leading the community. Also, the book made a lot of citations to the works of several scholars, and it was pleasing to see that references were provided on the back pages. As a result, the authenticity of the author’s message can easily be verified.
The only thing I would say that I didn’t like about this book was the font size. I found myself straining my eyes a bit, especially when I started reading. I got used to the font size anyway, and after I did, I had no further distractions. However, the book is a top-class material, and it is professionally edited, given that I found only a few minor errors within the text. I award this book 4 out of 4 stars. The book's intended audience is politically and socially aware readers interested in emerging trends in the commons as well as leadership, and I highly recommend it. Leaders are also encouraged to read this volume. Even if there are some references to spirituality, people of all religions and non-religion will appreciate this read because there aren’t any discriminatory references to either group.
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Proleptic Leadership on the Commons
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