ABSTRACT
The chapter discusses a brief history of the developments in mainstream leadership studies and then looks in to critical approaches that focus on the neglect of power. It includes the proprietary conception of leadership and power to a neglect of the body in leadership studies, albeit acknowledging important exceptions within gendered and philosophical analyses of leadership. The chapter focuses on a theory and practice of affect and its affects and, more importantly, how it might facilitate embodied and ethical forms of leadership. 'Critical leadership studies' critically examines the negative or dark sides, especially where, for example, leadership can readily be transformed into a cult that mesmerises believers and demonises those who challenge the message or its meaning. It is largely the common sense proprietary conception held by theorists and practitioners alike that prevents both power and leadership being seen and practised in this productive and positive manner.
