The C-Theory: on Chinese philosophical approach to decision making, leadership and management

Extending from the distinction between two polarities of management philosophy, rationalistic management (RM) and humanistic management (HM), I propose that we must recognise the creative principle (C-principle) of applying the whole understanding of things and human persons to each problem of management just as we must weigh each decision against a vision of the whole of both knowledge and value which interact in complex cultural contexts. Thus, the C-principle emphasises that management is an integral part of the transformation of humanity. Furthermore, it incorporates the use of scientific knowledge and technology side by side with various functions and ends of humanity in an open system of generation, balance and incessant development in both external focus on worldly changes and internal focus on human needs and their harmonisation. The letter C stands for creativity, change, culture, Chinese tradition and Confucianism and their creative and best syntheses for managerial practices.