Exonerating Frederick Taylor

After 100 years, mythology sometimes overshadows a master’s teachings

By Jesse W. Brogan

Frederick Taylor’s 1911 paper “The Principles of Scientific Management” is accepted as the first major statement of industrial engineering. But in the century since its publication, the myth of “Taylorism” has arisen. This myth considers Taylor’s work a major cause for dehumanizing the workplace. This myth comes from those who judge Taylor’s work by reputation, instead of looking at what he taught in his writings. Although the myth conflicts with what Taylor wrote, it is strong enough to be presented commonly to industrial engineering students.

In reality, Taylor dealt with each worker as an individual. He actively encouraged a manager’s positive personal interaction with each worker. Impersonality in the workplace comes from sources other than Taylor.