Exploring the Meaning of “Good” Management

Abstract

Recently, good management has come to be equated in theory with practices that increase worker satisfaction. This may inadvertently be contributing to low productivity, narcissism, and groupthink among the work force. Exploring contributions from history, philosophy, and literature, I conclude that while definitions of good may be contextual, there is little evidence to support a “contented cow” approach to management. Definitions that stress human growth and productivity may be of greater long-range benefit to our society.