Postmodernism and Excellence: The De‐differentiation of Economy and Culture

Abstract

Explores the relationship between new trends in management thought (e.g. corporate culture, the Excellence literature) and postmodernist ideas. Argues that a central theme of postmodernism is the de‐differentiation of the spheres of economy and culture. Suggests that this theme is present in new management philosophies that celebrate the virtues of play, flexibility and indeterminacy. But that this celebration is partial and instrumental as, paradoxically, it is intended to extend the life of modernist institutions.

Citation

Willmott, H. (1992), "Postmodernism and Excellence: The De‐differentiation of Economy and Culture", Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 58-68. https://doi.org/10.1108/09534819210010980