What Darwin can teach us about success

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how Darwin's Theory of Evolution can be used to help managers and organizations adapt to change.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses Darwin's Theory of Evolution in relation to the management of organizations.

Findings

The paper finds that Darwin's Thoery has many applications in management. However, the ability to adapt also rests on other important organizational characteristics. It also takes a special kind of leadership which will accept a high level of failure while the organization learns to adapt.

Practical implications

Darwin's Theory shows us the need to create opportunity and motive for change to be effective. The paper emphasizes the need to look for a crisis so you can create a sense of adversity for change.

Originality/value

Psychology and sociology are the centerpieces of management, however, other disciplines, including biology, and specifically Darwin's understanding of evolution, can be used to improve the creativity and adaptability to change.

Citation

Denton, D.K. (2006), "What Darwin can teach us about success", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 20 No. 1, pp. 7-9. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777280610637065