Comparison between "The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter
📝Home/Valuable perspectives/Comparison between "The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter

Comparison between "The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter

💬
Note from Joost about AI Co-Creation:
This article was created in dialogue with my co-creative AI sparring partner. It started with my personal reflections from the week. The AI helped identify a relevant theme, asked targeted questions to deepen the insights, and then drafted this piece using my input and answers.
While the AI structured and drafted the text based on our interaction, the core ideas, experiences, and insights are mine. I've edited the result carefully to ensure it accurately reflects my voice, perspective, and intent, turning raw reflection into a shareable 'field note'.
My aim remains to foster an environment where we can learn together, and to embrace curiosity about these new ways of working and the insights they can help surface.
If you want to share your thoughts with me, please do.
Table of contents of this article

Introduction

In my pursuit of advancing social design and creating a positive societal impact, the comparison of "The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter provides valuable insights. These books, published 105 years apart, both champion participatory and decentralized approaches, highlighting the evolution of societal values and practices over the last century.
Follett's early 20th-century vision of group organization for true democracy and De Ruiter's contemporary advocacy for grassroots approaches to system transformation resonate deeply with my commitment to inclusivity and community-driven solutions.
Understanding the nuances and shifts in these philosophies helps inform my approach to social design projects. By integrating historical perspectives with modern practices, I aim to develop strategies that are both impactful and sustainable, contributing to a healthier, happier, and more connected world.

Overview

The books "The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter were published 105 years apart.

The New State

  • Author: Mary Parker Follett
  • Content: Discusses the need for group organization to replace traditional political systems for true democracy.
  • Published: 1918

Bottom-Up

  • Author: Floor de Ruiter
  • Content: Explores decentralized, grassroots approaches to system transformation and management, emphasizing the importance of bottom-up processes.
  • Published: 2023

One sentence summary:

Both books, published over 100 years apart, advocate for participatory, decentralized governance and management, emphasizing collective action and critiquing top-down systems, highlighting enduring democratic challenges.

Main points:

  1. Emphasize the need for increased participation and decentralization.
  1. Critique traditional top-down systems as ineffective and outdated.
  1. Highlight the importance of group dynamics and collective thought.
  1. Stress the integration of diverse perspectives for social progress.
  1. Follett focuses on political philosophy and group organization.
  1. De Ruiter provides practical examples of bottom-up approaches.
  1. Follett's work is theoretical and philosophical.
  1. De Ruiter's work is practical and action-oriented.
  1. Both books advocate for community-driven initiatives.
  1. Emphasize moral and inclusive leadership.

Takeaways:

  1. Participation and decentralization are crucial for effective governance.
  1. Top-down systems often fail to address local realities.
  1. Collective action leads to innovative and adaptive solutions.
  1. Diverse perspectives are essential for social progress.
  1. The enduring relevance of these ideas highlights persistent democratic challenges across centuries.

Reflection on societal changes over the last 105 years

  1. Technological Advancements:
    Modern technologies facilitate greater citizen participation through digital platforms, enabling real-time feedback and more transparent decision-making processes.
  1. Greater Emphasis on Inclusivity and Social Justice:
    Contemporary values prioritize inclusivity and social justice, aligning with Follett’s vision of integrating diverse perspectives and promoting collective action.
  1. Shift from Theoretical to Practical Application:
    De Ruiter’s practical approach indicates a move from Follett’s philosophical foundations to actionable steps in implementing participatory governance, reflecting the evolving complexity of societal challenges.
  1. Increased Recognition of Community-Driven Solutions:
    There is a growing acknowledgment of the importance of community-based initiatives in addressing complex problems, showing progress towards Follett's vision of an engaged and responsible citizenry.
By comparing these elements, we can see that while the core principles of participation and decentralization remain relevant, the application has evolved, supporting the idea that society has indeed moved towards a more participatory model as envisioned by Mary Parker Follett.

Overlaps

Emphasis on Participation and Decentralization

Both "The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter advocate for increased participation and decentralization in governance and organizational management. Follett's concept of direct democracy through group organization emphasizes the need for active participation and responsibility of every citizen. Similarly, De Ruiter champions grassroots approaches, where decisions are made at the local level, involving community stakeholders directly.

Critique of Top-Down Systems

Both authors critique traditional top-down systems as being ineffective and disconnected from the realities of those they aim to serve. Follett argues that traditional representative government and majority rule are outdated, while De Ruiter highlights the inefficacy of centralized decision-making in addressing contemporary challenges. They both believe that decentralized approaches lead to better problem-solving and more sustainable outcomes.

Importance of Collective Thought and Action

Follett's work emphasizes the importance of group dynamics in creating new ideas through collective thought. She believes that true democracy is a genuine union of individuals, not just a sum of individual votes. De Ruiter also emphasizes collective action, suggesting that local groups and organizations can be more adaptive and innovative in addressing social and environmental challenges. Both authors highlight the power of community-based initiatives and the need for collective problem-solving.

Integration of Diverse Perspectives

Both books stress the importance of integrating diverse perspectives to achieve social progress. Follett believes that the unification of differences within groups is essential for democracy, while De Ruiter advocates for engaging local stakeholders to leverage community assets and knowledge. They both argue that inclusive and participatory processes are key to effective governance and organizational management.

Differences

Context and Focus

"The New State" is rooted in early 20th-century political philosophy, focusing on the shift from traditional representative government to direct democracy through group dynamics. Follett's work is influenced by social psychology and philosophical principles, emphasizing the psychological and spiritual transformation necessary for effective group organization. In contrast, "Bottom-Up" addresses contemporary challenges in organizational management and system transformation. De Ruiter provides practical examples and case studies of successful community-based initiatives, focusing on solving modern organizational problems through bottom-up approaches.

Philosophical vs. Practical Orientation

Follett's work is more theoretical and philosophical, proposing a new political method based on the group principle and the creation of a genuine collective will. Her ideas are heavily influenced by social psychology and the integration of diverse perspectives. De Ruiter's work, on the other hand, is more practical and action-oriented. He provides concrete examples and actionable steps for implementing bottom-up approaches in both public and private sectors, addressing issues like globalization, digitalization, and environmental crises.

Scope of Application

While Follett's ideas are primarily focused on political systems and the transformation of democracy, De Ruiter's approach is broader, encompassing organizational management and system transformation across various sectors. De Ruiter discusses the application of bottom-up approaches in both corporate and public settings, providing a more comprehensive guide to system change.

Reflection on the Century Gap

Ideas to Reflect On:

  • The fact that both books, published over a century apart, advocate for similar principles of decentralization and participation suggests that these ideas are fundamental to effective governance and management. However, the specific contexts and applications have evolved to address contemporary issues.
  • The continued relevance of Follett's ideas in modern discussions indicates that the challenges of achieving true democracy and effective governance are enduring. Despite technological and societal advancements, the core principles of participation and collective action remain crucial.
  • The shift from a philosophical to a practical orientation in addressing these issues reflects the increasing complexity of modern problems. De Ruiter's focus on actionable steps and real-world examples highlights the need for practical solutions in today's fast-paced and interconnected world.
  • The emphasis on local decision-making and community-driven solutions in both books underscores the importance of engaging those most affected by decisions. This approach is increasingly recognized as vital for addressing complex, multi-faceted challenges in a globalized society.
  • Reflecting on the publication gap between the two books invites us to consider how historical context shapes the evolution of ideas. It prompts a reevaluation of current democratic practices and the ongoing need for innovation in governance and organizational management.
By examining these overlaps, differences, and reflections, we gain a deeper understanding of the enduring principles and evolving practices in the pursuit of effective democracy and organizational management.

Questions to Reflect On:

1. How have the principles of democracy evolved over the past century, and what remains unchanged?
Over the past century, the principles of democracy have evolved to include greater emphasis on inclusivity, representation, and human rights. Initially focused on majority rule and representative democracy, there has been a growing recognition of the need for participatory democracy, where citizens are more actively involved in decision-making processes. Concepts like deliberative democracy and direct democracy have gained traction, reflecting a shift towards more engaged and informed citizenry. However, what remains unchanged is the fundamental idea that democracy is about collective decision-making and governance by the people. Both Follett and De Ruiter emphasize the need for genuine participation and collective will, a principle that remains central to democratic thought.
2. What does the persistence of calls for decentralization and participation tell us about the effectiveness of current democratic systems?
The persistent calls for decentralization and participation suggest that current democratic systems are often seen as insufficiently responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people. Traditional top-down approaches can lead to disconnection between decision-makers and citizens, resulting in policies that may not reflect local realities or address grassroots concerns. This disconnect fosters a desire for more localized and participatory forms of governance, where citizens have a direct say in matters that affect their lives. The fact that these calls have persisted for over a century indicates that the challenges of achieving truly participatory and responsive governance are enduring and that existing democratic structures may need significant reform to become more inclusive and effective.
3. How do modern challenges like globalization and digitalization influence the applicability of Follett's and De Ruiter's ideas?
Globalization and digitalization significantly influence the applicability of Follett's and De Ruiter's ideas by both complicating and enabling democratic processes. Globalization has interconnected economies and societies, making governance more complex and necessitating more collaborative and adaptive approaches. Follett’s emphasis on group dynamics and collective will becomes crucial in addressing global issues that require coordinated efforts across different regions and cultures. Digitalization, on the other hand, provides tools that can facilitate bottom-up approaches. Digital platforms enable greater citizen participation, real-time feedback, and transparent decision-making processes, aligning with De Ruiter’s advocacy for grassroots involvement and decentralized decision-making. However, these advancements also pose challenges like digital divides and information overload, requiring careful management to ensure equitable and effective participation.
4. In what ways have technological advancements impacted the feasibility of bottom-up approaches in governance and management?
Technological advancements have significantly enhanced the feasibility of bottom-up approaches in governance and management. Digital tools and platforms enable more effective communication, collaboration, and information sharing among large groups of people, making it easier to gather input and engage citizens in decision-making processes. Technologies like social media, collaborative software, and data analytics allow for more inclusive and transparent governance, where diverse voices can be heard, and decisions can be made based on comprehensive data. These tools support the kind of participatory processes advocated by both Follett and De Ruiter, enabling more adaptive, responsive, and democratic systems. However, they also require careful implementation to avoid issues like digital exclusion and ensure that the benefits of technology are equitably distributed.
5. How do contemporary societal values and priorities shape the implementation of participatory and decentralized methods?
Contemporary societal values and priorities, such as a greater emphasis on inclusivity, transparency, and social justice, shape the implementation of participatory and decentralized methods by driving demand for more democratic and equitable governance structures. There is an increasing recognition of the importance of diverse perspectives and the need to address systemic inequalities. This societal shift aligns with the principles of participatory democracy and decentralization, as people seek more control over decisions that affect their lives and communities. Additionally, there is a growing awareness of the limitations of centralized power and the benefits of localized, community-driven solutions. These values influence policies and practices, encouraging the adoption of bottom-up approaches that empower individuals and communities, reflecting the ideas put forth by both Follett and De Ruiter.
By integrating insights from "The New State" and "Bottom-Up," we can better understand the evolving nature of democracy, the ongoing need for decentralization and participation, and the ways in which modern challenges and technological advancements shape the implementation of more inclusive and responsive governance models.

Philosophies and Ideas

Democracy and Governance

The New State

  • Direct Democracy: Advocates for direct democracy through group organization, emphasizing the creation of a genuine collective will.
  • Critique of Traditional Systems: Criticizes traditional representative government and majority rule as outdated and ineffective.
  • Group Dynamics: Emphasizes self-organization and group dynamics as essential for effective governance.
  • Collective Will: Believes that true democracy involves the active and responsible participation of every citizen.
 

Bottom-Up

  • Decentralized Governance: Advocates for decentralized, grassroots approaches to governance and problem-solving.
  • Local Decision-Making: Emphasizes the importance of engaging local stakeholders and communities in the decision-making process.
  • Critique of Top-Down Approaches: Criticizes top-down approaches for being disconnected from local realities and needs.
  • Sustainability: Suggests that bottom-up approaches lead to more sustainable and effective outcomes.

Group Dynamics and Collective Action

The New State

  • Collective Thought: Highlights the importance of group life in creating new ideas through collective thought.
  • Union of Individuals: Stresses that democracy is not just a sum of individual votes but a genuine union of true individuals.
  • Intentional Politics: Proposes that group organization substitutes intention for accident in politics.
  • Integration of Differences: Believes that social progress relies on the unification of differences within groups.

Bottom-Up

  • Community Initiatives: Highlights the power of community-based initiatives in solving complex problems.
  • Local Adaptation: Suggests that local groups and organizations can be more adaptive and innovative.
  • Collective Problem-Solving: Emphasizes the role of collective action in addressing social and environmental challenges.
  • Empowerment: Argues that empowering local groups can lead to more resilient and responsive solutions.

Key Concepts and Principles

Political and Social Structures

The New State

  • Group Principle: Emphasizes creating a common idea through the group principle.
  • Evolving State: Highlights the need for continuous political activity to evolve the state.
  • Individual and Group Interdependence: Believes in the interdependence of individuals and groups within the political system.

Bottom-Up

  • Decentralized Structures: Advocates for decentralized structures where power and decision-making are distributed.
  • Networked Communities: Promotes flexibility and adaptability in organizational structures.
  • Local Knowledge: Stresses the importance of local knowledge and context in decision-making.

Leadership and Participation

The New State

  • Inclusive Leadership: Critiques hierarchical expertise and advocates for inclusive, participatory processes.
  • Shared Vision: Believes effective leadership involves both leading and following within a shared vision.
  • Moral Leadership: Advocates for moral and conscious leadership.
  • Citizen Responsibility: Emphasizes that every individual has a responsibility to contribute to the group's ideas and processes.

Bottom-Up

  • Organic Leadership: Supports leadership that emerges organically from within communities.
  • Participatory Decision-Making: Highlights the importance of participatory decision-making where all voices are heard.
  • Facilitative Leadership: Encourages leaders to facilitate rather than dictate solutions.
  • Collaborative Approach: Promotes a collaborative approach to leadership, where power is shared.

Specific Recommendations and Practices

Community Engagement

The New State

  • Civic Engagement: Recommends developing community centers to enhance civic engagement.
  • Collective Thought: Encourages creating environments that support collective thought and creativity.
  • Psychological Understanding: Advocates for political methods that reflect psychological understanding of group dynamics.
  • Diverse Perspectives: Stresses the importance of integrating diverse perspectives for social progress.

Bottom-Up

  • Community-Driven Initiatives: Suggests fostering community-driven initiatives for local development.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Recommends engaging local stakeholders in all stages of decision-making.
  • Strong Local Networks: Promotes building strong local networks to support innovation and resilience.
  • Utilizing Community Assets: Encourages leveraging community assets and knowledge for problem-solving.

Social Innovation

The New State

  • Adaptive Learning: Proposes that true democracy involves a continuous process of learning and adaptation.
  • Organized Purpose: Emphasizes the role of intention and organized purpose in political life.
  • Social Psychology: Advocates for integrating social psychology principles into political science.
  • Creative Citizenship: Highlights the need for creative citizenship as the foundation of democracy.

Bottom-Up

  • Local Innovation: Supports the idea that innovation should come from the ground up.
  • Experimentation: Encourages local experimentation and the sharing of successful practices.
  • Feedback Loops: Highlights the importance of adaptive learning and feedback loops in social innovation.
  • Scalability: Promotes the idea that local solutions can be scaled and replicated elsewhere.

References and Inspirations

The New State

  • Philosophical Principles: References Aristotle and Kant’s philosophical principles applied in modern context.
  • Social Psychology: Draws on social psychology concepts from William McDougall.
  • Unity and Interpenetration: Influenced by ideas on unity and interpenetration from Heraclitus and William James.
  • Studies on Syndicalism: Engages with studies on syndicalism, international relations, and industrial organization.

Bottom-Up

  • Community-Based Examples: Cites examples of successful community-based initiatives and grassroots movements.
  • Case Studies: References case studies of local innovation and problem-solving.
  • Decentralized Organization: Draws on theories of decentralized organization and networked communities.
  • Contemporary Research: Engages with contemporary research on social and environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

"The New State" by Mary Parker Follett and "Bottom-Up" by Floor de Ruiter both advocate for participatory and decentralized approaches to governance and social organization. Follett emphasizes the importance of group dynamics and collective will in achieving true democracy, while De Ruiter focuses on empowering local, community-driven solutions for system transformation. Both works critique traditional hierarchical systems and highlight the need for inclusive, adaptive, and context-specific approaches to leadership and decision-making.