A value-based leadership model grounded in history

Abstract

Value-based leadership as an umbrella term including authentic, ethical, spiritual leadership, etc. indicates leading by remaining faithful to beliefs and values. This study aims to reveal the relevance of Islamic administration tradition to modern value-based leadership studies. In line with this purpose, Kutadgu Bilig, the oldest monument of the Islamic Turkish literature, was qualitatively inquired. The research design was grounded theory and data was analysed by content analysis using MaxQDA software. Kutadgu Bilig describes an outstanding leader with 23 attributes classified under six categories. While the model combines traits, behaviours, and values, that third one is an indispensable condition of efficiency. Looking across centuries, this comparative analysis reveals that the model grounded in Kutadgu Bilig bears the stamp of ethical and servant leadership. However, it places a premium on the virtuousness of the ruler at the individual level and on the attributes of justice and benevolence at the administrative level.