Moral Complexity in Leadership: An Exploration through Literature (KACI-960-0) In this course, literature serves as the entry point to analyze morally complex matters and then formulate and communicate cogent opinions about them in a group. Through literature, we will pull out common themes of classic moral quandaries that leaders face (e.g. pernicious issues such as greed or self-deceit, operating as an "agent of another" whom you disagree with, fractured professional and personal life, the troubles with "likability," etc). We will then examine how characters in the stories and real-world business leaders have grappled with such issues and analyze how individuals make choices congruent with their values, what actions convey care for the systems within which they operate (or are responsible for), and perhaps most importantly, what can get them off track. Students will not only read critically and carefully, but will also learn the arts of listening well, facilitating dialog amidst disagreement, and articulating sound arguments through weekly reflection papers and their conversations with one another.
The course is built around weekly small group discussions in class and a plenary lecture on the week's themes in the business world. The emphasis is on deep, rigorous reflection and meaningful communication rather than sound bites or quick tips. The reading materials span centuries, continents and viewpoints, building respect for the complexity of those we interact with on a daily basis. This discussion-based course includes weekly homework assignments (reading and writing), a group project analyzing a film that conveys moral complexity, and a final, individual paper and brief presentation on a work of your choosing.
Personal Leadership Insights (KACI-461-5) This course is a unique opportunity for students who are highly motivated and committed to their personal development and growth as a leader and who value the chance to do this work in a group setting. The Kellogg faculty leader serves as coach and facilitator to guide students through a process that explores who they are (strengths, needs, values), reveals how others experience them (feedback), examines who they want to be (vision/purpose) and identifies actions for moving forward (development planning). Individual reflective exercises will be further explored and shared in small group meetings, full class discussion, and individual coaching appointments with the faculty. Students complete a paper integrating their personal insights. There is no final exam.
Because the course focuses on self-awareness and relationships with others, students rely on interactions with each other to experience vulnerability and growth within an environment of safety and trust. Therefore, students will not receive a letter grade, but rather a "Pass" with 0.5 credits or a "No-Credit" on their transcript. The "Pass" designation will be given if the following requirements are met: 100% attendance (non-negotiable), completion of all assignments, honoring confidentiality, and active participation in class activities and discussions.
Please note that the 100% attendance policy is non-negotiable across all sections and instructors. Only bid on a section for which you are sure you can attend every class session. Review the abbreviated syllabus for that section to confirm the precise meeting dates.