3.3 Management As a Science : The word science literally means knowledge. It is a systematised body of knowledge
acquired by mankind through observation and experimentation and which is capable of verification.
The basic difference between Art and Science is that Art implies knowing, how the application,
where as Science is concerned with knowing why?
In the words of Keynes “ Science is a
systematised body of knowledge which establishes relationship between cause and effect “.
The essential features of Science : 1. It is a systemalised body of knowledge that uses scientific methods for
observation.
2. The Principles are evolved on the basis of continued observation.
3. The principles are exact and have universal applicability without any limitation.
4. The principles establish a cause and effect relationship between various factors.
5. The validity of scientific principles can be verified and they provide a reliable
basis for predicting future events.
Let us now apply these features of science to management to determine whether it qualifies
as science
?
3.3.1 Systematized Body of Knowledge : Management is viewed as a science as it is an organised body of knowledge built up by
management practioners, thinkers and philosophers over a period of time. “ Management science
is body of systematised knowledge accumulated and accepted with reference to the understanding
of general truths concerning management “.
The principles of management make use of scientific methods for observation.
Frederick W. Taylor , the
Father of Scientific Management applied scientific techniques to studies of planning,
organising, staffing, motivating etc.
3.3.2 Continued Observation : As applied to management, the principles of management have been developed after
continued observation. The knowledge of management has been acquired through continuous
and vigorous effects of many theorists and practitioners over a period of years.
