A Critique of Theory Z

Citation
J. Sullivan, Jeremiah, A Critique of Theory Z, Academy of Management review , 8(1), 1983, pp. 132-142
ISSN journal
03637425
Volume
8
Issue
1
Year of publication
1983
Pages
132 - 142
Database
ACNP
SICI code
Abstract
Ouchi's Theory Z prescribes how employees should be motivated for increased productivity.Based on the theoretical work of Emile Durkheim, it views the modern large corporation as a communal alternative to the shortcomings of other institutions in industrial mass society.Ouchi's assertion that Japan is the industrial society in which Theory Z has flourished receives limited support from research findings. Moreover, Ouchi's grounding of the theory in humanistic management seem unwarranted.