What does the principle of "cooperation" imply in Scientific Management?

The principle of "cooperation" in Scientific Management emphasizes the importance of teamwork between management and workers. This approach was introduced by Frederick Taylor, who believed that for an organization to function effectively, there needs to be a collaborative relationship between all levels of the workforce. By fostering cooperation, both management and employees can align their goals and work towards increasing productivity and efficiency. This principle suggests that management should not only direct or control workers but also engage with them to improve processes and outcomes.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the core concepts of Scientific Management. Encouraging competition between workers undermines teamwork and collaboration, which are crucial for maximizing efficiency. Placing sole responsibility for productivity on workers ignores the role of management in providing support, tools, and strategies necessary for high performance. Lastly, suggesting that management should operate independently of workers contradicts the principle of cooperation, as it would isolate management from the practical insights and contributions of the workers, hindering overall productivity and effectiveness. Thus, recognizing the importance of teamwork between management and workers aligns perfectly with the principle of cooperation in Scientific Management.