History of Management - MAN00031C
Module will run
Occurrence | Teaching period |
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A | Semester 2 2023-24 |
Module aims
This module introduces students to the classical ‘canon’ of management thought as traditionally understood in Western, Anglophone contexts. It aims to develop among students a sensitivity to the importance of history in understanding what ‘management’ is and where it has come from. This classical canon is to be subjected to critique and reinterpretation, giving due consideration of other perspectives (such as feminist, critical, and decolonial). Students will gain in-depth knowledge of classic management ideas and practices, will be introduced to management history as an area of study, and will also develop their skills as independent scholars, able to critically interpret academic texts, develop arguments of their own, and reflect on their own development and practice.
Module learning outcomes
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Identify key events, theories and issues in the history of management
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form an understanding of management history as an area of academic study
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apply classical management ideas to contemporary organisations / organising
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show an awareness of the historical and politically situated nature of management practice
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critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different perspectives on, and practices of, organising
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critically interpret academic readings and develop persuasive arguments and reflective writing of their own
Module content
Students will be encouraged to develop reflective writing skills through engagement with ASC Workshops (https://www.york.ac.uk/students/studying/skills/community/)
Indicative topics:
The uses of history in understanding management,
Adam Smith on the production process/labour process and links to market regulation,
Weber on Bureaucracy, power and rational organising,
Taylor on the division of labour and rewards,
Tavistock group/Hawthorne Studies on the 'human' worker,
Labour-centric perspectives (Marx, Critical Theory, labour unions),
Feminist perspectives on management and work,
Globalisation and management,
Decolonising management,
Management history as a field of study
The future of management.
Indicative assessment
Task | % of module mark |
---|---|
Essay/coursework | 20 |
Essay/coursework | 80 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
Task | % of module mark |
---|---|
Essay/coursework | 20 |
Essay/coursework | 80 |
Module feedback
Feedback will be given in accordance with the University Policy on feedback in the Guide to Assessment as well as in line with the School policy.
Indicative reading
Bridgman, T. and Cummings, S., (2021) ‘A Very Short, Fairly Interesting and Reasonably Cheap Book about Management Theory’. London: SAGE
Jenkins, K., (2003). Rethinking History. Abingdon: Routledge.
Watson, T. (2017) ‘Sociology, Work & Organisation’. Abingdon: Routledge
Pearson, G., (2016). The Rise and Fall of Management: A Brief History of Practice, Theory and Context. Abingdon: Routledge.