Crucibles
How Formidable Rites of Passage Shape the World's Most Elite Organizations
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In Crucibles: How Rites of Passage Shape the World's Most Elite Organizations, readers will encounter the unique initiation rituals of fourteen elite groups--both historical and contemporary--that have shaped civilizations, fortified leaders, and made lasting impacts on culture and power dynamics in societies around the globe and across time. From the grueling physical trials of traditional warrior castes to the intellectual challenges faced by members of secret societies, Crucibles delves deep into the tests such groups design and deploy to separate aspirants from the chosen few.
Why are people willing to endure such demanding trials? What do these crucible experiences reveal about human nature and commitment? And how do these crucibles shape the organizations that require them--both for better and worse? This book uncovers the universal principles behind these rites of passage and offers insights that modern organizations can use to design their own rigorous processes, fostering excellence while remaining ethical and relevant in today's world.
About this Author
James R. McNeal is a retired rear admiral in the U.S. Naval Supply Corps, currently serving as an adjunct leadership professor and sprint football coach at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
J. Eric Smith is a former U.S. Naval Supply Corps officer, retired nonprofit executive, and management consultant who lives in Sedona, Arizona.
Reviews
PRAISE FOR CRUCIBLES
"Coauthors Rear Admiral Jim McNeal and J. Eric Smith know how to tell a story that informs, influences, and leaves a lasting impact with the reader. They've done it with a previous book and succeeded again with Crucibles. Each has tremendous credibility writing about formidable rites of passage in elite organizations because each displayed their own measure of outstanding 'Teamwork, Tone, Tenacity' while serving in unique locations and organizations, such as southwest Asia combat zones and the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. What's especially intriguing about this fascinating topic of Crucibles is the wide professional and geographic diversity of organizations that are examined across modern and ancient times. Want to be educated and entertained? Read one of Jim McNeal's and J. Eric Smith's books!"
"Always looking for gems in the hidden and unique aspects of history, both McNeal and Smith know how to select appealing and interesting topics that pull a reader into an engaging book. With their unique ability to assimilate disparate historical facts, in this book they are experts at how to methodically conduct a thorough examination of the distinct and usually shielded world of rituals required to enter certain groups or societies. Each author possesses that special ability to expose a reader to the mental, physical, and social commitments that make one experience an enlightening lesson in how people interact and why they are willing to conform themselves to belong to groups or societies. At times funny, serious, and disarming, both authors are brilliant writers who will create a book that pulls readers into wanting to know more about how the social need to belong affects group dynamics and why individuals choose to become part of the fabric of those groups."
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