By Jean Brittain Leslie
Center for Creative Leadership
William A. Pasmore
Columbia University
Summary
This paper examines the structural impediments to addressing systemic global challenges in what scholars term a “polycrisis” environment—where multiple crises interact and amplify each other through interconnected systems. The analysis identifies two primary categories of barriers: belief systems that disconnect individuals from systemic issues and social barriers that hinder collective action.
Drawing on successful historical interventions like smallpox eradication and polio elimination, the authors establish four essential components for systemic change: technological capability, cross-boundary collaboration, sustained engagement, and scalable resources. However, they argue that human-centered obstacles, particularly entrenched belief systems and social barriers, often determine success or failure despite technical feasibility.
The paper systematically analyzes eleven belief barriers across three categories: ideological (including neoliberalism and human exceptionalism), awareness-related (such as apathy and information overload), and confidence-related (including distrust in science and issue complexity). Additionally, it examines three critical collective action barriers: vested interests, disagreement on solutions, and lack of collective will.
To address these challenges, the authors propose an integrated framework combining Direction-Alignment-Commitment (DAC) theory with the Gleicher/Dannemiller Change Formula (D × V × F > R). They advocate for four high-leverage strategies: fostering personal ownership of systemic issues, driving continuous experiential learning, scaling small wins into broader change, and transforming individual stakes into collective will.
The research particularly emphasizes leadership development as a critical force multiplier, serving as a bridge between theoretical frameworks and practical application. The authors conclude that successful intervention in systemic crises requires not only technical solutions but also transformation of human belief systems and social barriers through sustained, collaborative engagement.
Citation
Leslie, J.B. & Passmore, W. A. (2025). Leading Beyond Barriers: Creating Impact in an Age of Polycrisis. Center for Creative Leadership. https://doi.org/10.35613/ccl.2025.2060
