Over the years, much attention has been devoted to the functional aspe
cts of leadership. In light of the continuing crises facing transformi
ng former communist countries to some form of capitalism, a better und
erstanding and analysis of the so-called ''dark-side'' of leadership n
ow seems appropriate. After setting the historical and cultural founda
tions in these transforming countries, the characteristics and reasons
for the potential of this negative side of leadership is examined. Th
is article concludes by analyzing and making observations about the ap
plicability of positive, more democratic leadership approaches in post
-communist countries.