Prof Ferleger and grad student Matthew Lavallee co-author “Taylor’s World Revisted” for Business and Economic History Online
“Taylor’s World Revisited”
Abstract:
Textbooks often provide readers with first impressions or introductions. Therefore, the portrayal of Frederick Winslow Taylor in management textbooks might explain why many hold Taylor and his ideas in low regard. Rather than recognizing Taylor as one of the first thinkers to study work in and of itself, the textbooks in our sample reduce him to little more than the inventor of time-and-motion studies and a more scientific approach to management. This, however, fits with the mainstream of the historical profession, which eyes Taylor suspiciously. Both historical and management literature, nevertheless, often fail to see that Taylor sought to overcome the irreconcilability of the interests of workers and managers with his new system of management
link to full text: http://www.thebhc.org/sites/default/files/Ferleger_BEHO_Final%20Draft_0.pdf