Management theory's true believers
Article Abstract:
The Protestant sect the Bruderhof, which rejects materialism, uses contemporary management theories to run their production facilities. The Bruderhof maintain two business enterprises: toy makers Community Playthings; and Rifton, which focuses on therapy products for disabled children. Not all theories are adopted: orders are frequently turned down because members perform no overtime and no outsiders are brought in to handle excess work. Also, workers are not paid; they view their work as a form of prayer. Since adopting the latest theories, the group has increased its revenue more than twofold in eight years, to more than $24 mil.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1997
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Alpha plus
Article Abstract:
The Alpha Course is a course in basic Christianity developed by Nicky Gumbel since 1990. The course has attracted 200,00 people in 6,300 churches, in the United Kingdom, according to the organisers. The aim of the course is to explore Christianity, and little knowledge is assumed. Gumbel's base, Holy Trnity Brompton, London, has an office block for dealing with the course, which is being exported to international conferences, as well as being sent to British prisons. Critics argue that the course oversimplifies Christianity, while supporters claim that it can help revitalise the Church of England.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1998
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The last seven Shakers in the world
Article Abstract:
There are seven members left of the Sabbathday Lane Shakers, set up in 1783. The Shakers are well known for their furniture styles, music, and simple, communal lives. They saw a drop in membership after 1945 and new Shakers are only invited to become Shakers after a relationship has developed. They retain some traditions such as a capella singing, but have also embraced modern technology, and have invented a number of devices as well as setting up a website. Their lifestyle fits in with a new trend toward simpler ways of living.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1999
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