Alternative leadership strategies based on Earth-centered principles: A Delphi study

The purpose of this study was to explore alternative leadership strategies based on Earth-centered principles. Earth-centered principles are described as the natural principles in the evolution of our Universe and Earth. These are the foundational principles engaged by Nature in the evolution and creation of Earth.; These Earth-centered principles were gleaned through a review of the literature. The literature review focused on emerging concepts in quantum physics, cosmology, biology, and the wisdom of indigenous peoples. For the purpose of this research, the primary focus was the three cosmological principles of differentiation (diversity), subjectivity (identity), and communion (interconnectedness). From the field of biology, the primary focus was the principles of holon and holarchy and mutual consistency. Other areas of literature review included the history of leadership and leadership theory.; The methodology for this research study is the Delphi technique in three rounds. A panel of experts was created who nominated study participants. Of the individuals nominated, 61 agreed to participate. In Round One, the study participants responded to a series of 7 questions regarding Earth-centered principles and leadership. Results were collated, analyzed, and summarized and incorporated into the second questionnaire for Round Two of the Delphi. In Round Three, a final draft of summary results was shared with the study participants for comments.; Study findings indicate that Earth-centered principles are important to today's leaders. From the findings, three conclusions emerge. A first conclusion is that today's leaders do relate positively to Earth-centered principles. Ninety-six percent respondents rated Earth-centered principles as " important" or "essential to leadership."; A second conclusion is that Earth-centered principles do have application potential into the organizational setting. Ninety-two percent of respondents see the application of Earth-centered principles into organizations as " often" or "always" necessary .; A third conclusion is that Earth-centered leadership, as embodying the values that emerged from this dissertation and as practicing the leadership strategies and practices that emerged from the study participants does offer a model, an alternative way of leading in the 21st century. Earth-centered leadership is "ecozoic" leadership offering values, strategies, and practices for life to be sustained in our home---Mother Earth.