Humanness in Organizations is a unique contribution from the social sciences to the betterment of organizational life. The authors argue that working life can only become more humane when we change the conditions that consciously or unconsciously steer people away from consideration, friendship and integrity. The aim of this book is twofold: first, to take a closer look at the current practices of managers, academics, and consultants, and how they affect organizational conditions, work and the well-being of people. The critical studies presented here explore and develop the likely consequences of these practices for the future. Second, the authors wish to familiarize readers with ‘actionable knowledge’ in order to create alternative practices and conditions that enable the whole person to engage in healthier interactions both in and with his organization. Nine social scientists from Europe or the United States, each with an established reputation in the field of consulting with a psychodynamic or ‘clinical perspective’, have contributed their experiences and studies to the book. About the Editor: Leopold S. Vansina, PhD, is Professor Emeritus at the Catholic University of Leuven and Université de Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium. He worked as an organization consultant at the International Institute for Organizational and Social Development (IOD Leuven), which he founded and directed for twenty-five years. He has headed the Professional Development Institute (Pro-Dev. Ltd) and is a member of the Academy of Management, and ISPSO. |