ABSTRACT
This chapter presents and explains human relations (HR) theory (1930s–1950s), covering the work of Barnard, Follett, McGregor, Herzberg, and others. Beginning with Mayo and the Hawthorne Studies, the chapter discusses the time and motion tradition of the Gilbreths, expanding far beyond most organizational communication textbooks. The historical progression from classical management to HR is thus made clear. The roots of contemporary management practices created in this period in management theory are highlighted—illustrating that many taken-for-granted practices in the present-day organizational world were created by HR teachings.
