Mary Parker Follett and Transforming Disaster Response

Abstract

That Mary Parker Follett (1868-1933) was ahead of her time in many respects is beyond question and is well documented. Yet, we continue to struggle with many of the same and similar questions that to some degree confronted Follett during her time. While formulating and examining these contemporary questions is important, we would be remiss if we fail to study the work done by Follett many decades ago. In fact, we would be wasting valuable time as we confront the many wicked problems that challenge the future. One may be surprised at how prescient Follett’s work is when paired with many of the modern questions we confront. Though Follett’s work can be and should be applied in numerous modern settings, the work can be readily applied to many of the important systemic questions and concerns confronting American disaster response. Delving into Follett’s understanding and often prescriptions for many of these questions can aid us in solving some of these problems. This voice speaking from across the decades needs to be heard and can offer us much insight into dealing with numerous modern problems. The many challenges confronting American disaster response provide a prime example of a modern day application for Follett’s work.