What concept does early leadership-theory development suggest?

The early leadership-theory development largely aligns with the perspective that certain traits or characteristics predispose individuals to leadership roles, which is encapsulated in the belief that some are born to lead, whereas others are born to be led. This viewpoint is rooted in the trait theory of leadership, which emerged in the early 20th century and suggests that inherent qualities—such as intelligence, charisma, and decisiveness—are linked to effective leadership.

This early approach emphasized the individual leader's attributes rather than the dynamics of leadership behaviors or the context within which leadership occurs. It highlighted an innate distinction between leaders and followers, proposing that effective leadership comes from those with certain natural abilities and qualities.

While more contemporary theories have shifted towards relational and situational perspectives, emphasizing the interactions between leaders and followers, the early theories focused predominantly on identifying and characterizing those who possess qualities suited for leadership. Thus, the statement that some individuals are inherently predisposed to lead aligns with the foundational ideas about leadership that stressed the importance of innate traits.