WORKPLACE DEMOCRACY Meaning and
Definition
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Workplace democracy refers to a system or practice where the employees of an organization actively participate in decision-making processes that affect them and the overall functioning of the workplace. It is a concept that promotes the inclusion of employees in the decision-making hierarchy, allowing them to voice their opinions, suggestions, and concerns. This collaborative approach aims to create a more equitable and empowered work environment.
In a workplace democracy, employees are encouraged to actively engage in the decision-making process through mechanisms such as open discussions, deliberations, voting, and consensus building. It involves the establishment of structures and procedures that give employees a say in matters that impact their work, such as policies, procedures, budgets, and resource allocation.
The core principles of workplace democracy often include equality, transparency, and mutual respect among all members of the organization. It seeks to foster a culture of trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility, where every employee's voice is valued and considered.
This democratic approach to the workplace has been associated with various benefits such as increased employee motivation, job satisfaction, and productivity. It can also promote a sense of ownership and loyalty among employees, as they feel more involved and connected to the organization's objectives and outcomes.
Overall, workplace democracy is a framework that promotes employee participation, empowerment, and engagement in decision-making processes, with the objective of creating a more inclusive and productive work environment.
Etymology of WORKPLACE DEMOCRACY
The word "workplace democracy" comprises two key terms: "workplace" and "democracy".
1. "Workplace" refers to a physical or virtual location where individuals gather to perform their jobs or engage in work-related activities. It comes from the Middle English word "werkplace", which evolved from the Old English term "weorcplæce". The Old English term "weorc" means "work" or "deed", and "plæce" means "place".
2. "Democracy" originates from the Greek words "demos", meaning "people", and "kratos", meaning "power" or "rule". It denotes a system or form of government in which power is vested in the people, who participate in decision-making, either directly or through elected representatives. The concept of democracy has ancient roots in Greek civilization.
