In some businesses you have to wonder whether leaders are human. Indeed, it could be asked whether the leaders themselves are treated in a humane manner. I am reminded of the now arcane quip by General George C. Marshall when he said:

“Enlisted men may be entitled to morale problems, but officers are not. I expect all officers in this department to take care of their own morale. No one is taking care of my morale”

Not the height of emotional intelligence you might say.  It would appear that people want their leaders to model courage and confidence - with a human face.

This question occurred to me while reading about reactions to the current head at the BBC and whoever will be the successor to the current Managing Director at the IMF. There are probably many aspects which set these important roles apart from each other.

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