Can Women and Religion (Catholic) Save Modern Leadership?

Abstract

This article examines the theoretical potential of the gender leadership model of women motivated by the Catholic religion in the context of its ability to socially and politically activate and its effectiveness in terms of assumed goals. Numerous studies on gender indicate a certain effectiveness of gender politics (including gender equality and neutrality) in reducing the deficit of women in politics, but it turns out that in the long term it does not effectively solve the problem of the asymmetry of gender representation in the world of politics. The analysis of the decision-making processes of a selected group of Saints, Blessed and Venerable Servants of God, recognised by the Catholic Church as a model to follow, indicates that women with a strong internal religious motivation were more determined to act and enter the sphere of public activity (including politics) than those motivated only externally. They preferred a relational style of political leadership, but also practiced its goal-oriented form. These leaders mixed strategies, adjusting them to their own capabilities and the needs of their surroundings, making them more effective and efficient in achieving their goals despite the limitations resulting from external systemic conditionalities.