The variety of approaches to management analysis, the amount of research, and the number of different views have resulted in much confusion as to what management is, what management theory and science is, and how managerial events should be analyzed. Who called this situation ‘the management theory jungle’?

Correct option is C

Harold Koontz, a renowned management theorist, coined the term "management theory jungle" in 1961. He used this phrase to describe the confusion and lack of unanimity in the field of management due to the presence of multiple, often conflicting theories.

Koontz identified different schools of thought in management, such as:

• The Empirical School (which focuses on past experiences)

• The Human Behavior School (which emphasizes psychology and sociology)

• The Social Systems School (which views organizations as part of a larger social system)

• The Decision Theory School (which is based on rational decision-making)

• The Mathematical School (which applies quantitative techniques to management)

He argued that while each of these perspectives contributed valuable insights, the lack of integration created a "jungle" of ideas, making it difficult for managers and scholars to develop a unified approach to management. Koontz emphasized the need for a systematic and coherent classification of management theories to enhance their practical applicability.

Information Booster:

• Harold Koontz was a distinguished management scholar known for his contributions to management theory.

• He co-authored the widely used book "Principles of Management" with Heinz Weihrich.

• His classification of management theories helped to shape modern management education.

• He believed that no single approach to management could address all managerial problems, hence the need for an integrated perspective.

• The "management theory jungle" concept remains relevant today, as new management theories continue to emerge and evolve.

Additional Knowledge:

• Chester Barnard:

  • He was an American business executive and author of "The Functions of the Executive."

  • Barnard introduced the Acceptance Theory of Authority, which suggests that authority is effective only when subordinates accept it.

  • He emphasized the role of informal organizations and communication in management.

• Elton Mayo:

  • A psychologist and sociologist best known for the Hawthorne Studies at Western Electric.

  • He introduced the Human Relations Theory, which highlighted the importance of social factors in the workplace.

  • Mayo's research led to the realization that employee motivation and productivity are influenced by human and social factors, not just financial incentives.

• Henry L. Gantt:

  • A mechanical engineer and management consultant known for the Gantt Chart, a tool used for project scheduling.

  • He focused on improving industrial efficiency through scientific management techniques.

  • His work laid the foundation for modern project management practices.

Each of these theorists made significant contributions to management, but Harold Koontz was the one who introduced the "management theory jungle" concept.