The question of aesthetics as a theoretical framework for thinking about modern leadership issues in educational settings is an emergent area of inquiry that is receiving considerable attention. There is a growing sense that the mechanistic approach to leadership, which has been widely encouraged over the last ten years, is sterile and that a more philosophical approach is now required.

This approach is covered here, taking into account the importance of aesthetics on all aspects of the administrative and leadership world: the ways ideas and ideals are created, how their expression is conveyed, the impact they have on interpersonal relationships and the organisational environment that carries and reinforces them and the moral boundaries or limits that can be established or exceeded.

While presenting a significant departure from conventional studies in the field, the international contributors reflect a continuity of thought on administrative and leadership authority, from the writings of Plato through to current theory.

Eugenie A. Samier is a Senior Lecturer and coordinator of the EdD program at the British University in Dubai, and an Honorary Lecturer at the University of Birmingham. She is also editor of Ethical Foundations for Educational Administration and principal editor of Aesthetic Dimensions of Educational Administration and Leadership. Her research interests are in administrative and leadership philosophy and theory, particularly in ethics and aesthetic critiques.

Richard Bates is at the Deakin University, School of Social & Cultural Studies in Education in Australia.