Oprah Winfrey's Shortcomings as a Leader

As a person in a leadership role, Oprah Winfrey has been criticized in the media for advocating bad science (Jenny McCarthy's anti-vax crusade), pseudoscience (The Secret), materialism (the car give-away), and Dr. Phil. While her show is followed by millions of adoring fans, some critics question whether Oprah is well-suited for the role she inhabits. From philanthropic activities (such as the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa) to her book club choices, almost every decision she makes is open for scrutiny. This paper will examine Oprah's activities, and explain how Oprah's shortcomings have given her a limited ability to be a good leader.

Oprah's most vocal (though not necessarily heard) critic may be a man named Gerard Jones, the award-winning author of the cautionary tale Ginny Good. After being rejected by virtually every publishing house in America -- not to mention...
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