The Age Of Unreason.

Charles Handy

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In an era when change is constant, random, and, as Handy calls it, discontinuous, it is necessary to break out of old ways of thinking in order to use change to our advantage. Handy examines how dramatic changes are transforming business, education, and the nature of work. We can see it in astounding new developments in technology, in the shift in demand from manual to cerebral skills, and in the virtual disappearance of lifelong, full-time jobs. Handy maintains that discontinuous change requires discontinuous, upside-down thinking, and discusses the need for new kinds of organizations, new approaches to work, new types of schools, and new ideas about the nature of our society.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Shift from Certainty to Uncertainty: Handy argues that we are moving from an age of certainty to an age of uncertainty, where traditional structures and methods become less effective.

  2. Organizational Flexibility: The need for flexibility in organizations is emphasized. Traditional hierarchical structures may not be suitable for navigating the complexities of the modern world.

  3. Portfolio Career: Handy introduces the concept of the "portfolio career," where individuals have multiple income streams or engage in a variety of roles simultaneously.

  4. Shamrock Organization: Handy suggests the idea of the "Shamrock Organization," which includes a core of essential executives, a flexible workforce, and outsourced non-core functions.

  5. Importance of Individuals: The book emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing individual talents and contributions within organizations.

  6. Learning Organizations: The concept of a learning organization is explored, where adaptability, continuous learning, and innovation are crucial for survival and success.

  7. Personal Responsibility: Handy stresses the importance of individuals taking personal responsibility for their careers and development in an age where traditional job security may be diminishing.

  8. Cultural Diversity: The recognition of cultural diversity and the need for organizations to be adaptable and inclusive to different cultural perspectives.

  9. Entrepreneurial Mindset: The book encourages adopting an entrepreneurial mindset, whether within a large organization or as an individual, to navigate and thrive in the age of unreason.

  10. Importance of Values: Handy suggests that organizations should be guided by values and principles, serving a broader purpose than just profit.

Language English
ISBN-10 0-09-954831-3
ISBN-13 9780099548317
No of pages 217
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Random House
Published Date 01 Jan 1991

About Author

Author : Charles Handy

9 Books

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