The Age of Unreason is a book by Charles Handy, a renowned Irish author and philosopher specializing in organizational behaviour and management. Published in 1989, the book presents Handy’s thoughts on the changing nature of work, business, and society in the face of rapid technological advancements and shifting economic landscapes.
In The Age of Unreason, Handy argues that traditional models of work and organizations are becoming obsolete due to the increasing complexity and uncertainty of the modern world. He introduces the concept of the shamrock organization, which consists of three parts:
- The Core includes a small group of essential full-time employees who perform the organization’s core functions.
- The Contractual Fringe consists of temporary workers, contractors, and freelancers who are brought in as needed to fulfil specific roles or projects.
- The Flexible Labor Pool: comprises workers from external networks who can be tapped into when additional labour is required.
Handy’s Shamrock organization reflects the idea of flexibility and adaptability in response to changing market conditions and the need for specialized skills.
The book also explores broader societal shifts, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and personal development in an era where job security is less guaranteed. Handy discusses the rise of the portfolio worker, individuals who engage in various part-time or temporary roles to create a diversified income stream and gain a sense of autonomy.
The Age of Unreason encourages readers to rethink their attitudes toward work and career trajectories, urging them to embrace change, seek learning opportunities, and develop the skills necessary to thrive in a world characterized by uncertainty and rapid transformation.
Overall, Charles Handy’s book The Age of Unreason remains relevant as it addresses themes that continue to shape how we think about work, organizations, and personal development in the modern era.