Management Gurus: A Research Overview

by David Collins

Overview

Building upon decades of research, this shortform book distils the rise of management’s gurus. The author analyses the economic and political changes which facilitated the rise of this new group and offers reflections on the controversies around the development of ‘guru theory’ (a reasonably stable and enduring set of assumptions and associated practices). The rise of management gurus is placed in the context of critiques that the field is empty, insubstantial and faddish. With reflections on the contours of ‘the guru industry’ and insights into the world of "management speak", the text highlights conceptual, methodological and empirical failings and suggests a radical reconceptualisation of the guru-as-performer. This concise book from a global expert on the topic is essential reading for researchers of business and management as well as an insightful addition to the wider social science library.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780367520472
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	01/29/2024
Series:	State of the Art in Business Research
Pages:	134
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

David Collins is Professor in Management and Dean of the Suffolk Business School, University of Suffolk, UK.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction 2. The Rise of Management’s Gurus 3. Who are the Gurus? 4. Guru Theory 5. The Guru Industry 6. Guru Speak 7. The Limits of Guru Speak 8. New Directions in Management Guru Research

Editorial Reviews

'This succinct and to-the-point volume exemplifies the rigor insight and originality with which David Collins continues to address the Management Guru phenomenon. It is a must for researchers and students in business and management, and for the general reader.' — Bill Cooke, Chair in Strategy, University of York Management School, UK

From the Publisher