WE ARE USING AN ALTERNATIVE: ANARCHISM'S HIDDEN INFLUENCE ON MANAGEMENT INNOVATION

Abstract

In this study I explore features of anarchism and their intersection with management and organisation. I show that anarchism is present in modern organisations, particularly those operating with self-managed teams, diffused and democratic decision-making, flat structures, and other similar efforts, features largely seen as contemporary innovation in management. Anarchisms features remain hidden, obscured, and misunderstood however, something heightened by capitalisms neoliberal entrenchment, and anarchisms difficult past. If anarchism is influencing mainstream management, a direct study is an opportunity to show anarchism in a more useful, productive, and practical light. Revealing managements hidden anarchisms will be meaningful for an anarchist theory of management and organisations, a theory that could contribute to management and worker emancipation, and refinement of capitalisms lesser features.

Date of Award	6 May 2021
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The University of Manchester
Supervisor	Debra Howcroft (Main Supervisor), Leo Mccann (Co Supervisor) & Edward Granter (Co Supervisor)