Siamak Naficy
Critical thinking is widely acknowledged as an essential skill for military leadership, yet its counterpart—critical followership—remains underexplored. Effective military operations depend not only on decisive leadership but also on subordinates capable of critical assessment, adaptation, and constructive feedback. And military leaders do not emerge in a vacuum; they are shaped by their experiences as subordinates.
Critical followership is the ability of subordinates to think independently while remaining aligned with organizational goals. It involves questioning assumptions, providing informed feedback, and executing orders with an awareness of their broader strategic implications. Unlike passive obedience, critical followership fosters adaptability and resilience, especially in dynamic operational environments.
Understanding that followership and leadership are roles within the broader framework of leadership itself is essential. The natural relationship between leaders and followers is shaped by self-concept, trust, and the ability to adapt to evolving missions. When followers engage in critical thinking and constructive dialogue, they contribute to mission success rather than merely complying with directives. This paper examines the role of critical followership within hierarchical military structures, emphasizing its importance in mission command and decentralized decision-making.
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