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The Fifth Discipline

Nonfiction | Reference/Text Book | Adult | Published in 1990

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Book Brief

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Peter M. Senge

The Fifth Discipline

Nonfiction | Reference/Text Book | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

445

Format

Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Fifth Discipline by Peter M. Senge, first published in 1990 and updated in 2006, guides business managers on converting their companies into learning organizations by mastering five disciplines: Systems Thinking, Personal Mastery, Mental Models, Shared Vision, and Team Learning. Through real-world examples, Senge underscores the importance of systemic approaches, continuous learning, and team honesty to foster success and positive change.

Informative

Inspirational

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

37,824 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Fifth Discipline by Peter M. Senge is praised for its insightful perspective on organizational learning and systems thinking, offering practical tools for long-term growth and innovation. Critics, however, find some concepts complex and the writing dense. Overall, it's deemed a valuable resource for managers and leaders committed to fostering learning organizations.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Fifth Discipline?

A reader who values strategic thinking and organizational development would enjoy The Fifth Discipline by Peter M. Senge. This book is ideal for those interested in systems thinking and transformational leadership, akin to the audience for Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and Jim Collins' Good to Great.

4.3

37,824 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Peter M. Senge

A senior lecturer at MIT and renowned author on organizational learning, who draws inspiration from various leaders and theorists to explore the interconnectedness of systems and management practices.

Former CEO of Hanover Insurance Companies, whose business philosophy emphasizes employee happiness and personal improvement, influencing Senge's ideas on organizational learning.

An influential business theorist and professor known for his work on organizational behavior and reflection, whose theories on openness and challenging Mental Models impact Senge's concepts.

A Dutch business leader and scenario planner whose work with Shell and insights into Mental Models contribute to Senge’s understanding of organizational learning.

A Japanese entrepreneur and philanthropist whose collectivist mindset and emphasis on Personal Mastery inspire Senge's exploration of organizational learning principles.

A leader in organizational learning at Intel and Eisai, whose approach to Team Learning and advocacy for women in management is highlighted by Senge.

A Zimbabwean leader and co-founder of Pioneers of Change, whose work in community building and sustainable agriculture is used by Senge to illustrate leadership and organizational learning.

Book Details
Pages

445

Format

Reference/Text Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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