Lecture 02

In the second lecture, Dr. Prasad talked about Theory X and Theory Y managers the class shared personal experiences about these two types of managers in the real world.

Theory X

In this theory, management assumes employees are inherently lazy and will avoid work if they can and that they inherently dislike work. As a result of this, management believes that workers need to be closely supervised.

Scenario 1: In this scenario, Employees are lazy and Manager thinks employees are lazy

Scenario 2: In this scenario, Employees are good and Manager thinks employees are lazy

An example of Theory X manager is the time clock. You have to clock in partly because the management thinks you'll arrive late and leave early if you don't.

Theory Y

In this theory, management assumes employees may be ambitious and self-motivated and exercise self-control.  A Theory Y manager believes that, given the right conditions, most people will want to do well at work.

Scenario 1: In this scenario, Employees are lazy and Manager thinks employees are good

Scenario 2: In this scenario, Employees are good and Manager thinks employees are good

An example of Theory Y is an artist on contract to produce art. You tell the artist what you want done but you leave it to him/her when and how to do it as long as they produce what you want within your timeline. She can paint at 2AM for all you care - as long as you get art by the deadline.