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New Book Links Animal Behavior to Leadership

dailymaverick.co.za · 24 March 2026
New Book Links Animal Behavior to Leadership
Photo: dailymaverick.co.za

Why this is here: The book draws a comparison between a lioness carrying her cub and effective leadership, noting the balance of power and control demonstrated through gentle yet firm action.

Letlhokwa Mpedi’s new book, From Predator to Prey, explores leadership through the lens of animal behavior. The author examines habits and instincts across 20 chapters, drawing parallels between animal strategies and effective leadership. Mpedi argues humans can learn from pack hunting, symbiotic relationships, and survival techniques employed by various species.

The book contrasts the concept of a “super leader” with creating collaborative environments. It also analyzes how animals prioritize information, demonstrating the importance of filtering irrelevant stimuli. Mpedi highlights examples such as honey badgers, elephants, and wolves to illustrate persistence, mentorship, and communication skills.

The author notes animals demonstrate controlled power, like a lioness carrying a cub, and offers examples of how this applies to human leadership. While acknowledging potential over-humanization of animals, the book presents a fresh perspective on leadership by focusing on the practice itself, not just the leader.

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