Absolutely agree. Theories of leadership have developed a lot since the end of the last century. It used to be the top-down synonyms that I found on line: controlling, dominant. Leadership must include extensive consultation as you say -- taking in a lot of information -- but ultimately, making decisions based on the best information; then getting others on board through relationship and trust not through fear. This conversation reminded me to check these principles of what has been called feminist leadership. It also reminds me of why I need to participate on hubski to stretch my own thinking.One is the ability to take in a lot of information (some contradictory) and a lot of opinions, and maintain an ability to separate the signal from the noise to make a decision about a course of action.
Two is the ability to get others on board with one's decision making, which is primarily dependent on one's ability to communicate and connect with people.