Why Managers Exist (It's Not Why You Think)

Updated: February 22, 2025

Second Thought


Summary

This video delves into the historical origins of management, showing how it was influenced by capitalist society and the ruling class in the early 1900s. It discusses the challenges posed by socialist movements, powerful unions, and political parties that emerged to confront the capitalist system. The video also touches on the evolution of management roles after the New Deal, the emergence of a new managerial class in the 1960s, and the criticisms of capitalism that have persisted through the years. Additionally, it examines the impact of neoliberal policies, automation in monitoring, and the exploitative nature of managerial roles in shielding capital.


Purpose of Management in the Early 1900s

Discussing the origins of management and how it was shaped by capitalist society and the ruling class in the early 1900s.

Emergence of Socialist Politics and Unions

Exploring the rise of socialist movements, powerful unions, and political parties in the early 1900s that challenged the capitalist system.

Changing Role of Management Post the New Deal

Examining the evolution of management roles after the New Deal, addressing criticisms, compromises, and the impact on workers and capital.

Shifts in the Managerial Class in the 60s

Analyzing the emergence of a new managerial class in the 1960s, leading to further criticism and societal changes.

Criticism of Capitalism and Neoliberal Policies

Discussing the criticisms of capitalism, the impact of neoliberal policies, and the concept of freedom in post-60s capitalism.

Managerial Roles and Exploitation

Exploring the exploitation within managerial roles, automation in monitoring, and the shield for capital that such roles provide.


FAQ

Q: What were the origins of management in the early 1900s?

A: Management in the early 1900s was shaped by capitalist society and the ruling class, influenced by socialist movements, powerful unions, and political parties.

Q: How did the New Deal impact the evolution of management roles?

A: The New Deal resulted in changes to management roles, including addressing criticisms, making compromises, and impacting both workers and capital.

Q: What was the significance of the emergence of a new managerial class in the 1960s?

A: The emergence of a new managerial class in the 1960s led to further criticism and societal changes within the management structure.

Q: What criticisms arose regarding capitalism post-60s?

A: Critics of capitalism post-60s highlighted issues related to neoliberal policies, the concept of freedom, and the societal impact of capitalism.

Q: How did the managerial roles provide a shield for capital according to the text?

A: According to the text, managerial roles were seen as providing a shield for capital through exploitation within these roles, automation in monitoring, and other mechanisms.

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