As managerial roles diversify, the phenomenon of management becomes increasingly puzzling. Demand for formal management training, theories and qualifications has increased, yet our ability to think critically about management has diminished. At a time of organizational and environmental turbulence, the question of effective management is more complex than ever.

Unpicking the puzzles faced by both the manager and the student of management, this introductory guide explores the major issues of management, organization and knowledge, asking questions of our 'guru' culture and raising...