originally published 7/1/1997

Robert Kanigel, author of The One Best Way: Frederick Winslow Taylor and the Enigma of Efficiency (Viking, 1997), describes the transformation of work due to Frederick Winslow Taylor’s concept of scientific management. Taylor’s profoundly naturalistic and utilitarian view of work and workers did, indeed, lead to better productivity and efficiency, higher wages, and shorter hours. However, the cost of the bargain was the dehumanization of work: many jobs that used to involve complexity and thoughtful decision making on the part of workers were broken down into minute components, measured and timed, and recollected into mindless tasks. Kanigel argues that “Taylorism” ignores concepts such as human nature and dignity and the human need for meaningful, purposeful work. This interview was originally published on Volume 27 of the Journal.

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