"There is a harrowing lack of leadership in the world." With this simple statement Erik van Praag opens up a world of spiritual wisdom for leaders. Not a do-it-yourself book with quick remedies, van Praag's "Spiritual Leadership" focuses on the philosophical and metaphysical issues that underlie the difficulties faced by most leaders -- difficulties such as developing a vision, inspiring others, communicating effectively, listening to and acting on one's inner promptings, and maintaining a healthy balance between leading others and being led by them.

The human species is in a rather precarious situation. Poverty, the energy and financial crises, and above all the challenge of climate change mean that our civilization has come to a dangerous edge. Our safety nets-on both collective and individual levels-have been removed. Can we create a future that allows for a dignified society and a peaceful world? With a change of consciousness and a new spirituality, we may. Authors Judy McAllister, Erik van Praag, and Jan Paul van Soest bring to bear their diverse experience in the fields of sustainability, leadership, and entrepreneurialism on the...