Mary Parker Follett (1868-1933) was an American management consultant, social worker, and pioneer in the field of organizational theory and behavior. She made significant contributions to the fields of management, leadership, and conflict resolution.
Follett believed in the importance of democratic principles in organizations and emphasized the significance of collaboration, participation, and integration of diverse perspectives. She advocated for the decentralization of authority and the empowerment of individuals within the workplace. Follett argued that effective management should focus on creating a cooperative and harmonious environment, where conflicts are resolved through negotiation and compromise.
Her work emphasized the importance of group dynamics and the need for individuals to work together in order to achieve collective goals. Follett believed that effective leaders should act as facilitators, promoting collaboration and fostering a sense of shared purpose among team members.
Follett's ideas on management and leadership have had a lasting impact on the way organizations operate and are studied today. Her emphasis on the human element in organizations, the integration of individual differences, and the importance of democratic decision-making processes have become central tenets in modern management theory.
In addition to her work on management, Follett was also an influential thinker on social issues, advocating for social reform, women's suffrage, and the integration of different social classes. Her interdisciplinary approach and belief in the power of individuals to bring about positive change continue to inspire scholars and practitioners in various fields.
