Question

Which of the following statements are correct regarding Mary Parker Follett’s contributions to administrative theory?

(i) She advocated for conflict resolution through integration, finding solutions that meet the needs of all parties involved.
(ii) She emphasized “power with” rather than “power over” to foster collaborative leadership.
(iii) She promoted a rigid hierarchical structure to ensure efficient decision-making.

• A. Only (i) and (ii)
• B. Only (ii) and (iii)
• C. Only (i) and (iii)
• D. ) All are correct

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Only (i) and (ii)

Mary Parker Follett's Contributions to Administrative Theory

• Mary Parker Follett (1868-1933) was an American social worker, management consultant, and pioneer in the fields of organizational theory and organizational behavior. She is often regarded as the 'Mother of Modern Management'.
• She emerged during the classical management era but offered a more humanistic and dynamic perspective, bridging the gap between classical and human relations theories.

I. Conflict Resolution through Integration

• Statement (i) is correct. Follett strongly advocated for conflict resolution through integration.
• Integration, for Follett, meant finding a solution that satisfied the fundamental desires and needs of all parties involved, rather than one side dominating or a simple compromise where both sides give up something.
• She distinguished integration from two other methods of conflict resolution:
  • Domination: One side wins, the other loses. This leads to resentment and future conflict.
  • Compromise: Both sides give up something. This may not fully satisfy either party's core needs.
• Follett believed that true integration fosters creativity, mutual understanding, and durable solutions, leading to organizational growth and efficiency.

II. 'Power With' vs. 'Power Over'

• Statement (ii) is correct. Follett introduced the significant concept of 'power with' as opposed to 'power over'.
• 'Power over' refers to traditional, coercive, or authoritarian power, where one individual or group dictates terms to others. It is based on dominance and control.
• 'Power with', on the other hand, is a concept of co-active power. It emphasizes shared power, collaboration, collective effort, and mutual influence.
• She believed that collaborative leadership, where power is generated and exercised by the group working together, is far more effective and sustainable than top-down control. This concept is foundational to modern participatory management and teamwork.

III. Views on Organizational Structure

• Statement (iii) is incorrect. Mary Parker Follett did not promote a rigid hierarchical structure. In fact, her ideas challenged the traditional, rigid organizational structures prevalent in her time.
• She emphasized coordination through common purpose and mutual understanding rather than through a strict chain of command.
• Follett advocated for functional authority, where individuals have authority based on their expertise and contribution to a specific function, rather than solely on their position in a hierarchy.
• Her work laid the groundwork for ideas like decentralization, employee empowerment, and horizontal coordination, which are contrary to rigid hierarchies. She believed in the importance of informal groups and the dynamic nature of organizational life.

Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams

• Follett is a crucial figure in the Human Relations School of management thought.
• Her concepts like integration, circular response, law of the situation, and power with are frequently tested.
• She saw organizations as dynamic, evolving groups of people rather than static machines.
• Her work remains highly relevant in contemporary management discussions concerning leadership, conflict management, and organizational development.