Watch The Filmmr Roberts Starring Henry Fonda James Cagney

Watch The Filmmr Robertsstarring Henry Fonda James Cagney Ja

Watch The Filmmr Robertsstarring Henry Fonda James Cagney Ja

Watch the Film Mr. Roberts Starring: Henry Fonda, James Cagney, Jack Lemmon APA: Ford, H. (Director). (1954). Mr Roberts. Los Angeles: Warner Brothers And answer the following questions on a Word document: Question #1 Despite his superior rank, the captain was not respected as a leader. In contrast, Mister Roberts was widely admired by the crew, and even beloved to some extent.

What actions did you see Mister Roberts take throughout the movie that would have contributed to his men viewing him in this regard as a leader? Question #2 Were any of Mister Roberts ’actions detrimental to his ability to act as a leader? In particular, examine the challenges he encountered in leading in the days after the men returned from their island liberty. Question #3 Ensign Pulver asks Mr. Roberts, “What do you really think of me, honestly?†Mister Roberts replies, “I think you’re the most hapless, lazy, disorganized, and in general lecherous person I’ve have known in my entire life.†He then goes on to dress him down in even more specific terms. What do you think of a leader using such brutal honesty? Mister Roberts in part defends what he says by stating that Pulver asked him, but even so, does that give a leader full license to criticize someone so harshly? Does the fact that the criticism may have been completely true justify it? What about the ship’s doctor being present?

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The film "Mr. Roberts" (1954), directed by Henry F. Ford, offers a compelling exploration of leadership dynamics aboard a Navy cargo ship during World War II. Central to the narrative are two contrasting figures: Captain, a figure of authority lacking respect, and Mister Roberts, who commands admiration and loyalty from his crew. This paper analyzes the actions that contributed to Roberts’s leadership qualities, examines potential detriments to his leadership, and explores the ethical dimensions of brutal honesty in leadership as exemplified by Roberts’s interactions with Ensign Pulver.

Actions Contributing to Mister Roberts’s Leadership

Mister Roberts’s leadership is characterized by numerous actions that foster trust, camaraderie, and respect among his men. One significant action is his consistent display of empathy and understanding. Roberts demonstrates genuine concern for his crew’s well-being, often prioritizing their needs over rigid adherence to orders. For instance, he assigns liberty to his men despite the risks, recognizing the importance of rest and morale in maintaining effective performance. This compassionate approach engenders loyalty and admiration from the crew who see him as more than just a figure of authority—he is a genuine leader who values their humanity.

Furthermore, Roberts employs humor and wit to diffuse tension and build rapport. His sardonic humor and ability to share in the camaraderie of the crew create a sense of solidarity that transcends hierarchy. His willingness to listen and communicate openly with the crew fosters an environment where sailors feel heard and respected.

Roberts also demonstrates moral courage by resisting unjust orders that compromise his and his crew’s integrity. His internal conflict with the captain’s sometimes arbitrary or harmful decisions positions him as a figure who acts according to personal ethics and concern for others, further solidifying his respectability and influence.

Potential Detriments to Mister Roberts’s Leadership

Despite his admirable qualities, some actions or circumstances may have challenged Roberts’s leadership effectiveness. After the crew’s return from island liberty, Roberts faces the challenge of maintaining discipline and order amidst fatigue and frustration. His reluctance to use strict disciplinary measures or to enforce discipline stringently could risk undermining authority, especially when morale is low.

Additionally, Roberts’s subtle defiance of authority, though morally justified, places him at odds with command structures. His attempts to protect his crew from malicious orders or to advocate for their well-being sometimes conflict with military protocols. This duality may diminish the perceived legitimacy of his leadership in the eyes of superiors, although it enhances his respect among the crew.

Furthermore, Roberts’s indecisiveness and internal conflict regarding following orders may impair his ability to be an authoritative leader in critical moments. His tendency to weigh moral considerations against duty could slow decision-making and lead to perceived weakness, especially in situations that demand swift, uncompromising action.

The Use of Brutal Honesty: Ethical and Leadership Considerations

The confrontation between Ensign Pulver and Mister Roberts exemplifies the complex ethics of honesty in leadership. Roberts’s blunt criticism of Pulver—calling him hapless, lazy, disorganized, and lecherous—raises questions about the boundaries of honesty and the appropriateness of harsh feedback. Roberts defends his honesty by noting that Pulver asked for his opinion, implying that candidness is justified in such circumstances.

However, whether brutal honesty is acceptable depends on context, intent, and the potential impact on morale and dignity. Leaders must balance transparency with compassion. Harsh criticism, even if truthful, can erode trust, damage relationships, and demoralize individuals if delivered without tact. In this case, Roberts’s frank assessment appears overly harsh and risks humiliating Pulver, which could undermine team cohesion.

The presence of the ship’s doctor adds another layer to this ethical dilemma. The doctor, symbolizing medical and moral authority, might perceive Roberts’s comments as unnecessarily cruel or damaging. Leaders should consider the long-term consequences of their words and opt for constructive feedback that motivates growth rather than diminishes self-esteem.

While honesty is vital in leadership, it should be accompanied by empathy and discretion. Criticism that is overly brutal, regardless of its truth, can be counterproductive. Effective leaders communicate difficult truths respectfully, fostering an environment of trust and mutual respect.

Conclusion

"Mr. Roberts" exemplifies the nuanced nature of leadership, illustrating that effective leadership relies on a combination of compassion, integrity, and moral courage. Roberts’s actions—showing concern for his crew, deploying humor, and taking moral stands—enhance his respect and admiration by the crew. However, challenges such as maintaining discipline post-liberty and balancing moral convictions with hierarchical expectations can impede leadership effectiveness. The episode involving brutal honesty with Pulver underscores the importance of communication style in leadership, suggesting that honesty must be tempered with tact to preserve morale and trust. Leadership is a delicate art that requires balancing truthfulness with empathy to foster loyalty, respect, and effectiveness.

References

1. Ford, H. (Director). (1954). Mr. Roberts. Los Angeles: Warner Brothers.
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