The Action Logics of Environmental Leadership: A Developmental Perspective

Olivier Boiral, Mario Cayer, Charles M. Baron

Journal of Business Ethics · 2009 · Volume 85 · Issue 4

Abstract

This article examines how the action logics associated with the stages of consciousness development of organizational leaders can influence the meaning, which these leaders give to corporate greening and their capacity to consider the specific complexities, values, and demands of environmental issues. The article explores how the seven principal action logics identified by Rooke and Torbert (2005,Harvard Business Review83(4), 66–76; Opportunist, Diplomat, Expert, Achiever, Individualist, Strategist and Alchemist) can affect environmental leadership. An examination of the strengths and limitations of these action logics reveals the relevance of the so-called post-conventional stages of consciousness to the recognition and effective management of complex environmental issues. Suggestions are also made for promoting organizational contexts conducive to the development of a post-conventional environmental leadership.

Keywords

environmental leadership, consciousness development, corporate greening, social and environmental responsibilities, post-conventional stages

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