The Managerial Revolution is a book written by James Burnham, published in 1941. In this book, Burnham explores the rise of the managerial class and the impact it has had on society. He argues that the managerial class has become increasingly powerful and that it has fundamentally changed the nature of politics and society. Burnham’s book is still relevant today, as the managerial class continues to grow and exert more influence over our lives.
Chapter 1: The Managerial Revolution
In the first chapter of The Managerial Revolution, Burnham introduces the concept of the managerial class. He defines the managerial class as a group of people who are trained to manage complex organizations and systems. Burnham argues that the managerial class has become increasingly powerful in the 20th century, and that it has fundamentally changed the nature of politics and society. He writes:
“The managerial revolution is the most important development of our time. It has altered the political and social landscape and has brought about changes that are still unfolding. The managerial class has become the dominant force in our society, and its influence is only going to grow in the future.”
Chapter 2: The Rise of the Managerial Class
In the second chapter of The Managerial Revolution, Burnham traces the history of the managerial class. He argues that the managerial class began to emerge in the 19th century, as large corporations and bureaucracies began to replace small businesses and family farms. Burnham writes:
“The managerial class emerged as a distinct group in the late 19th century, as large corporations and bureaucracies began to replace small businesses and family farms. The managerial class was made up of people who were trained to manage complex organizations and systems, and it quickly became the dominant force in the economy.”
Chapter 3: The Managerial State
In the third chapter of The Managerial Revolution, Burnham discusses the rise of the managerial state. He argues that the managerial class has become increasingly powerful in the political sphere, and that it has fundamentally changed the nature of government. Burnham writes:
“The managerial state is characterized by a centralized bureaucracy that is run by experts and professionals. The managerial state is not based on the traditional principles of democracy or liberalism, but rather on the principles of efficiency and expertise.”
Chapter 4: The Managerial Revolution and the Future
In the final chapter of The Managerial Revolution, Burnham looks to the future and considers the implications of the managerial revolution. He argues that the managerial class will continue to grow in power and influence, and that it will fundamentally change the nature of society. Burnham writes:
“The managerial revolution is not a temporary phenomenon, but rather a fundamental shift in the way society is organized. The managerial class will continue to grow in power and influence, and it will fundamentally change the nature of society. The managerial revolution is not a threat to democracy, but rather a necessary step towards a more efficient and effective society.”
Overall, The Managerial Revolution is a thought-provoking book that explores the rise of the managerial class and its impact on society. Burnham’s arguments are still relevant today, and his book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and future of the managerial class.
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