This book challenges the roots and elements of the existing dominant paradigm of management
which can legitimize artless practices and result in dysfunction and proposes an alternative
based on a different understanding of human nature and social and economic life. This paradigm
is designed to bring about the conception of organizations as wholes rather than assemblies of
disembodied fragments with managers as facilitators of the work of others and shapers of
culture with a clear sense of purpose and a moral compass. Such a paradigm would result in a
practice of management that is more competent more purposeful and more ethical based on a
more accurate and complete comprehension of reality. This book sets forth a more optimistic
understanding of human nature and collective life and the hope that we can be and do better.
It is a major contribution to the field of management and will benefit academics managers and
consultants working in the fields of organizational development and strategic change.
