Leadership theory defines authentic leaders as those holding high moral values, and posits that authentic leaders, through their integrity and altruis Show moreLeadership theory defines authentic leaders as those holding high moral values, and posits that authentic leaders, through their integrity and altruism, inspire followers to emulate them by also developing their own values, integrity and caring. If the authentic leadership construct is valid, then followers must perceive their leaders’ integrity and altruism before they will desire to emulate them, and these perceptions should be influenced by leaders’ value content. This empirical study addresses that fundamental question: Do leaders’ values impact their perceived authenticity – their integrity and altruism – in the eyes of their followers? Show less