Dominant management logics in siyasetnames

This thesis is an attempt to search for dominant management logics in the historic treaties on public administration (namely, 'siyasetnames') emerged in the Islamic World between the centuries of 7-17, in order to enrich and contribute to the debates of contemporary management studies. Though contemporary management literature is dominated by Western (capitalistic) values and norms, it is presented as universal. However, management as a social phenomenon is value-laden, and thus different value systems constitute different management paradigms. This thesis puts into question whether these treaties (siyasetnames) appeared in a long period of time and in a wide geography dominated by Islamic values before the rise of Western mindset represent a set of values. To this end, first, the treaties are analyzed to find out which key concepts are central (frequently referred to). Second, from these key concepts which arguments are developed as the bases of administrative thinking. Third, given the implication of these arguments what would be the potential contribution of siyasetnames to the contemporary management understanding. Results of this thesis reveal central management concepts and arguments on actors, processes and outcomes in siyasetnames. Key arguments that are claimed by all siyasetnames imply that there are three dominant management logics: (i) value-laden management, (ii) emphasis on actors and (iii) ultimate authority of God. These logics indicate that there are different set of values (than Western perspective), which provide complementary implications to the discussions in modern MOK. Overall, this thesis is an endeavor for introducing alternative, value based mindsets on management from historical Islamic context and results of this thesis give chance to think on more inclusive management understanding.