Democracy, a way of organizing in a knowledge economy

This essay expands on the theme of the 2003 Academy of Management conference in Seattle: Democracy in a Knowledge Economy. A central concern is the disconnection between the expansion of democratic governments and the relatively limited facets of democracy practiced in the workplace. The knowledge economy provides the context for reexamining the role of democratic practice in the way firms are organized in consequence of expanded access to information and the comparative advantage gained by firms composed of skilled and engaged workers. This essay's goal is to promote discussion among organizational scholars, educators, and practitioners regarding the link between democracy and work life. It reflects our personal deliberations based on research, practice, and conversations with Academy members, political scientists, and organizers of electronic communities.