Douglas McGregor - Managerial Quotes

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Formal theories of organization have been taught in management courses for many years, and there is an extensive literature on the subject. The textbook principles of organization — hierarchical structure, authority, unity of command, task specialization, division of staff and line, span of control, equality of responsibility and authority, etc. — comprise a logically persuasive set of assumptions which have had a profound influence upon managerial behavior.

Douglas McGregor

If there is a single assumption which pervades conventional organizational theory, it is that authority is the central, indispensable means of managerial control.

Douglas McGregor

Behind every managerial decision or action are assumptions about human nature and human behavior.

Douglas McGregor

Every managerial act rests on assumptions, generalizations, and hypotheses — that is to say, on theory. Our assumptions are frequently implicit, sometimes quite unconscious, often conflicting; nevertheless, they determine our predictions that if we do a, b will occur. Theory and practice are inseparable.

Douglas McGregor

Classical organization theory suffers from "ethnocentrism": It ignores the significance of the political, social, and economic milieu in shaping organizations and influencing managerial practice.

Douglas McGregor