The potential for the "dark side" of leadership in post-communist countries

Over the years, much attention has been devoted to the functional aspects of leadership. In light of the continuing crises facing transforming former communist countries to some form of capitalism, a better understanding and analysis of the so-called "dark-side" of leadership now seems appropriate. After setting the historical and cultural foundations in these transforming countries, the characteristics and reasons for the potential of this negative side of leadership is examined. This article concludes by analyzing and making observations about the applicability of positive, more democratic leadership approaches in post-communist countries.