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Understanding Humanistic Management

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  • Domenec Melé

    (University of Navarra)

Abstract

Humanistic management is a people-oriented management that seeks profits for human ends. It contrasts with other types of management that are essentially oriented toward profits, with people seen as mere resources to serve this goal. This article reviews the historical development of humanistic management and the ever-increasing body of literature on the concept as well as the different meanings that scholars attribute to it. It then explores what form a genuine humanism might have by presenting seven propositions labeled as: 1) wholeness, 2) comprehensive knowledge, 3) human dignity, 4) development, 5) common good, 6) transcendence, and 7) stewardship-sustainability. Next, it looks at four characteristics of a humanistic ethos for managing business: the view of the individual and human work, the role of the individual in the society and in interacting with nature, the business firm, and the purpose of business in society. Finally, it presents some insights for the practice of humanistic management.

Suggested Citation

  • Domenec Melé, 2016. "Understanding Humanistic Management," Humanistic Management Journal, Springer, vol. 1(1), pages 33-55, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:humman:v:1:y:2016:i:1:d:10.1007_s41463-016-0011-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s41463-016-0011-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Damianus Abun & Theogenia Magallanes & T. Nicols Marlene & Julian P. Fredoline & Michael B. Madamba, 2021. "Effect of attitude toward work, work environment on the employees’ work self-efficacy," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 10(7), pages 129-141, October.
    3. Damianus Abun & Theogenia Magallanes & Editha B. Acidera & Mary Joy Encarnacion & Carol U. Domingcil, 2021. "Work Environment and work Engagement of Employees of the Catholic Colleges in the Ilocos Region, Philippines," Technium Social Sciences Journal, Technium Science, vol. 19(1), pages 439-464, May.
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