Which principle argues that leaders must not hold formal authority?

The principle that argues leaders must not hold formal authority is shared leadership. This approach emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and the distribution of leadership responsibilities among team members rather than being concentrated in a single individual with formal authority. In shared leadership, influence comes from the expertise, skills, and commitment of team members, fostering a supportive environment where diverse perspectives contribute to decision-making processes.

This model aligns well with modern organizational dynamics where teams are often cross-functional and rely on collective input for success. Encouraging shared leadership can lead to increased empowerment and engagement among team members, ultimately driving innovation and improving outcomes.

The other concepts, while relevant in different contexts, do not advocate for the absence of formal authority in their leadership structures. Hierarchical leadership, for instance, relies on a clear chain of command, whereas transformational leadership typically emphasizes the role of a charismatic leader who inspires and motivates followers but still holds a position of authority. Avoidance leadership generally refers to a lack of proactive engagement in leadership roles, which does not correlate with the idea of distributing authority among team members.