Superheroes and the problem with the ‘Great Man’ theory of leadership
I heard the crack as my collarbone gave way. Surely this should not happen to a superhero. Where had I gone wrong?
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A Superhero in training
My cape billowed behind me. This was mainly because my Superman suit was too big and there was a draft in the hall. But the steely look on my face, that was 100% genuine.
The family was watching television, but not me. I laughed at their weakness. Mortals! They would watch greatness on the screen, but I would achieve greatness, right here in the hallway of our home.
This was no time for sitting around, I had committed myself to the rigours of disciplined training. I knew that if I was going to make an impact on the world — especially aged 6 — I needed to stand out. But I had to admit, learning to fly was hard.
I had a method. In the hall was a big antique chair with strong arms and a soft leather seat. From the arms I could launch myself to the stairs. Then I could turn on the stairs and leap back to the safety of the leather cushion. All I needed to do was inch the chair further away from the stairs after each successful flight. At…
