Through case studies, readings, projects and assignments, this course will explore the ways in which leadership functions as performance and that an awareness of performance can bolster leadership. This course argues that such recognition of the value of performance can make better leaders. We will examine ways in which leadership can and does depend on and consciously utilize performance. Beginning by defining what constitutes performance, we will use examples of leadership within contemporary business, academic, arts and political settings and observe leadership in action. We will seek to understand how, in each of these cases, performance can be a critical element. Accordingly, we will observe and discuss leadership styles and critique the roles that performance plays within them. Social media offers an important platform for leadership in performance that we consider. We will also discuss historic moments of upheaval and how performance figured prominently. Students will come to understand why and how performance has consequences.
4 units · Letter or Credit/No Credit · GER: WAY-A-II, WAY-EDP
Through case studies, readings, projects and assignments, this course will explore the ways in which leadership functions as performance and that an awareness of performance can bolster leadership. This course argues that such recognition of the value of performance can make better leaders. We will examine ways in which leadership can and does depend on and consciously utilize performance. Beginning by defining what constitutes performance, we will use examples of leadership within contemporary business, academic, arts and political settings and observe leadership in action. We will seek to understand how, in each of these cases, performance can be a critical element. Accordingly, we will observe and discuss leadership styles and critique the roles that performance plays within them. Social media offers an important platform for leadership in performance that we consider. We will also discuss historic moments of upheaval and how performance figured prominently. Students will come to understand why and how performance has consequences.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.