Peter Drucker on Social Ecology, Balancing Change and Continuity, and Building a Functioning Society

Abstract

Towards the latter part of the 20th century and beginning of the 21st century, Peter F. Drucker became known as the guru of management and as ‘the man who invented management’. For several years, his works primarily focused on private sector organizations, their management practices, programs, and performance. Over time, however, Drucker seems to have transformed from a management author and consultant into a social ecologist. Drucker’s works became increasingly permeated with examples of matters surrounding society at large. One of Drucker’s integral concepts is that of a Functioning Society. Central to this visionary concept is the notion that freedom, dignity, and equal opportunity can provide conditions for individuals to find meaning and purpose in their lives, and in turn, individuals will be able to contribute towards the betterment of communities and society.