Spiritual and ethical transformational leadership : critical discourse analysis within a practical theology praxis

Abstract

The objective of this article is to focus on renewed attention to ethics in contemporary dialogue through value-based leadership (Crotty 2005; Snyder & Lopez 2002; Van Eeden, Cilliers & Van Deventer 2008). This is done with reference to Crotty (2005) and Van Dijk (1993) on meaning in social research and critical discourse analysis within a framework of leadership discourse praxis. Discourse constructs – such as dominance and power are analysed in the (re)production of oppression, injustice and inequality. The objective is to analyse how human ideas and actions of powerful and dominant leadership elites are influencing and dominating ethical and/or unethical public enactments. The hypothesis is that ethical discourse enactments could foster authentic ethical and transformational leadership.