Why does the great man theory fail to explain leadership failure?

The great man theory, which posits that leaders are inherently great individuals with unique qualities that set them apart and enable them to lead effectively, indeed struggles to account for leadership failures. The reason the emphasis on only the positive aspects of leaders is a limitation is that it overlooks the complexities and realities of effective leadership—the multifaceted nature of human behavior and the different circumstances leaders face. By concentrating primarily on the attributes and achievements of leaders, this theory fails to consider how flaws, mistakes, and failures can significantly impact a leader's effectiveness and overall performance.

In contrast, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses is crucial for a more balanced understanding of leadership. Leadership is not solely defined by charisma or capability but is also about navigating challenges, managing failures, and learning from shortcomings. The theory's narrow focus on positive traits can lead to an incomplete picture that neglects the critical lessons that come from both successes and failures in leadership contexts.