Here's why:
* Limited Scope: Classical approaches focused heavily on efficiency, structure, and control in relatively simple, stable environments. They often overlooked the human element, individual needs, and the complexities of dynamic organizational settings. They are less applicable to today's complex, rapidly changing global business environment.
* Contingency and Systems Thinking: Modern management emphasizes contingency theory, recognizing that there's no "one best way" to manage. The optimal approach depends on the specific situation, industry, and organizational culture. Systems thinking considers the interconnectedness of various parts of the organization and its environment, a concept largely absent in classical approaches.
* Behavioral and Human Relations Schools: These schools, which emerged later, significantly contributed to management knowledge by focusing on motivation, group dynamics, leadership styles, and organizational culture. These aspects are crucial for effective management and were largely neglected by classical theorists.
* Quantitative and Contemporary Approaches: Management science, operations research, and other quantitative methods provide valuable tools for decision-making and optimization. Contemporary approaches also incorporate insights from fields like organizational behavior, strategic management, and change management, significantly broadening the scope of management knowledge.
In summary, the classical school provided essential building blocks, such as the importance of structure, division of labor, and planning. However, modern management theory is far richer and more nuanced, drawing from multiple schools of thought and adapting to the ever-evolving realities of the business world. To claim the core of management knowledge resides solely within the classical school is a significant understatement and a historically inaccurate assertion.