Michael Moore and Occupy Wall Street

Michael Moore became a celebrity by creating documentaries that speak for the American people. Moore has made a living writing books and making films that outline the pitfalls of governmental and social systems that he feels prohibit the growth and dominance of the United States. He has criticized every aspect of the American system, from the ever growing popularity of guns and violence in the US, to the globalization GM that took away jobs from the American public.

Making news headlines now is the movement that seems to be catching on all over the world. Yes, the Occupy Wall Street movement. Large groups of citizens in countries and cities all over the world are making their voices heard, and Moore is speaking with them.

One of the many reasons people are picketing in cities all over the United States is because they are sick of the greed that large corporations have brought into politics. Moore has made a point to publicly announce his dislike for the greed in corporate America, and the effect the greed has on the working class people of the United States. He has always been an advocate for the independence and strength of the American people over government institutions, and is joining the protest to express his beliefs on the pitfalls of our governmental institutions.  During a recent interview on the CNN show Piers Morgan Tonight, Moore sits across from the host, Piers Morgan, and answers questions from a live audience. Piers Morgan Tonight usually does not have a live audience, but for the sake of Moore making sure that the public is represented, the live audience was allowed.

I have posted part one of Moore's interview on the show to help show just how much the American people have rallied behind him during this time of desperate hope for the country.

Moore's ability to be a spokesperson for the American people makes him a great shaper of public opinion.
He has rolled up his sleeves and has joined the protestors of the Occupy Wall Street movement. Now that the Occupy Wall Street movement is gaining steam, it is a prime opportunity for Moore to show his true leadership style to the protestors who agree with his opinions and beliefs.

Although authentic leadership has yet to be clearly conceptualized, the authentic leadership style can be tied to the way Moore stands up for the principles he believes in. When looking at authentic leadership characteristics, it seems as if Moore demonstrates all of them in his own unique way. He seems to always lead with conviction. He shares with everyone what he believes in, and will give solid reasoning as to why he feels that way. He is always genuine with the people. He makes sure people understand he is a United States citizen as well, and also understands all the parts that are wrong with our system. His originality is unquestioned. People love him or hate him. Regardless of what people think he shares his thoughts and firmly believes in what he thinks is right. Lastly, he is a model for the way he believes in. He makes sure he bases his actions on his values. He shares what he believes in and makes sure he acts in accordance with his views.

This also leaves some interesting questions. Is it strange that Michael Moore supports the 99%, when many people look at him as being in the 1%? Is there more he can be doing to make an impact for Occupy Wall Street? Are there other leadership styles he can demonstrate to help progress this movement? What makes Michael Moore such a popular figure when political and social issues gain media attention?

- Michael Mancuso Jr.