A psychologist and a scientist examine the history of leadership since the dawn of man, discussing how and why it has evolved over thousands of years and arguing that what people look for in leadership harkens back to humanity's most primordial instincts.

"Originally published in Great Britain in 2010 by Profile Books Ltd."--T.p. verso. Published under title: Selected : why some people lead, why others follow, and why it matters.

The nature of leadership -- It's all just a game -- Born to follow -- Status-seeking on the savannah: the democratic ape -- The birth of corruption -- The Mismatch Hypothesis -- From savannah to boardroom: lessons in natural leadership -- Envoi -- Appendix A. Six natural leaders: a questionnaire -- Appendix B. The natural history of leadership.