Prior to the industrial revolution the study of leadership relied on

a scientific studies
b. intuition and description
c. case analyses
d. the trait approach to understand leaders

It's probably b. What does your book say?

The trait approach to understand leaders.

The correct answer is d. the trait approach to understand leaders.

To arrive at this answer, one can analyze the options provided and eliminate the ones that are not relevant to the study of leadership prior to the industrial revolution. This can be done by considering the time period and the available knowledge and resources during that era.

a. Scientific studies: The idea of conducting scientific studies or research to understand leadership was not common during the time period prior to the industrial revolution. The scientific method and empirical research were not widely practiced or considered in the study of leadership. Therefore, option a can be eliminated.

b. Intuition and description: Prior to the industrial revolution, leadership could have been studied through personal intuition and subjective descriptions. This relied on individuals' own perceptions and experiences to understand leadership. This option can be a possibility, but it is not the main approach used to study leadership during that time.

c. Case analyses: The study of leadership through case analyses involves examining specific instances or examples of leadership and drawing conclusions based on these cases. This approach has been used throughout history, including prior to the industrial revolution. It relies on observations and descriptions of leadership in various contexts. Therefore, option c is a valid possibility.

d. The trait approach to understand leaders: The trait approach to leadership focuses on identifying specific characteristics or traits that are associated with effective leadership. This approach suggests that certain inherent qualities or attributes make someone a good leader. The trait approach was prevalent during the time period prior to the industrial revolution. Scholars sought to identify and describe the traits that distinguished successful leaders from others. Therefore, option d is the most accurate and suitable answer.

In summary, the study of leadership prior to the industrial revolution primarily relied on the trait approach to understand leaders. Although other approaches, such as case analyses and personal intuition, were also utilized to some extent, the trait approach was the dominant method employed to study leadership during that era.