Dilbert Principle -- Satire, unintentionally real
I guess I’m behind the times. I just got around to reading The Dilbert Principle by Scott Adams. It’s a satirical book on dysfunctional corporate culture that’s eerily accurate, and explores the following principle:
The most ineffective workers are systematically moved to the place where they can do the least damage — Management.
When I saw Office Space, I remarked that “it’s not a comedy, it’s documentary.” The same applies to The Dilbert Principle.
The book came out in 1996. Ten years ago! I got my copy for $2 at a used book store a couple weeks ago. Defintely an enjoyable read.
The kicker for me, though, and the reason for the blog entry on a 10 year old book is that just this moring I was reading the chapter on “Leadership.” In it, Adams says:
Leaders spend their time concentrating on “visions” of the future. This can involve have lunch with other leaders, attending golf events, or even reading a book.
Ha, ha. What made this even funnier to me is that the front of the business section of my paper had the following story, which I read minutes later:
Golf has become as integral to business as the boardroom. On the course, executives cozy up to customers, and junior employees build paths to the corner office.
Sigh.