From Library Journal
The complexities surrounding the diversity of individuals within the entire workforce is the main focus of this new work by the author of The Truth Option (Ten Speed Pr., 1984). Schutz offers a solid perspective which demonstrates that people and process are not mutually exclusive. Clarifying his view of interpersonal workforce relationships by devising a Periodic Table of Human Elements, he argues that self-concept and self-esteem are essential to the success of any organization. Schutz's "Human Element" seminar, now in multiple offerings worldwide, is summarized here, but using and applying his methods will likely require a long-term commitment and professional assistance for many. Still, Schutz is well known for his extensive array of behavior assessment instruments, and this new book now makes his work more accessible. For larger business collections.
Dale Farris, Groves, Tex.Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Schutz has been heavily influenced by Esalen and Rolf, among other psychological constructs and individual thinkers. Nevertheless, what he provides is a way to apply his "human element" model--characterized by inclusion, control, and openness--to different types of situations in today's workplace. As any psychologist will agree, the drive to realize self-esteem is critical to an individual's life view; therefore, what more appropriate environment to promote the feelings of aliveness, self-awareness, competence, and the like than through business? Schutz expands the popular corporate teamwork concept (see
Inside Teams, below) to examine the reasons for success and failure. Schutz's insights into behavior, amply elaborated on through case examples, "pause for reflection" sections, and a variety of quizzes, provide great bases for both individual and organizational building and development.
Barbara Jacobs
