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“The Humanistic Management Network defends human dignity in face of its vulnerability. The dignity of the human being lies in its capacity to define autonomously the purpose of its existence. Since human autonomy realizes itself through social cooperation, economic relations and business activities can either foster or obstruct human life and well-being. Against the widespread objectification of human subjects into human resources, against the common instrumentalization of human beings into human capital and a mere means of production, we uphold humanity as the ultimate end and principle of all economic activity.” – The Humanistic Management Manifest.
Humanistic Management is a recent movement (circa 1990s) that counters more established management philosophies.
- Frederick Taylor's Scientific Management focused on maximising efficiency and productivity through scientific analysis and control of work processes.
- Max Weber's Bureaucratic Management emphasises a rigid hierarchy and strict adherence to rules and procedures.
- Transactional Leadership focuses on rewards and punishments to motivate employees.
Humanistic Management is more likely to enable creative problem-solving and innovation, through its focus on employee empowerment, collaboration, creativity, adaptability, intrinsic motivation, and purpose-driven work.
