.. The form of leadership must be the focus of constant reappraisal. Weber states, for example: 'Each new fact may necessitate the re-adjustment of the relations between end and indispensable means, between desired goals and unavoidable subsidiary consequences.' This process of re-adjustment is ultimately without resolution, for the political and ethical value-spheres are not only in constant opposition but also in permanent flux. It is the task of the politician to negotiate this value conflict and to be decisive as to the value to be pursued and the means to be employed. .Nicholas Gane
About This Quote
Weber's quote is about the relationship between leadership and the people. While leadership takes place on a macro scale, looking at society as a whole, it is important to remember that leadership is not one man's actions alone. It is those actions that are supported by those around him. The quote refers specifically to those who hold political power and to those who support those leaders. Because of this, it can be said that there is no resolution to the value conflict because leaders and their supporters will always question and re-evaluate leadership itself, both in terms of how they should be leading and what they should be doing as a result.
Source: Max Weber And Postmodern Theory: Rationalization Versus Reenchantment
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