The New State · Question
How does The New State develop the theme of Integration of Occupational and Neighborhood Groups?
Answer
The New State by Mary Parker Follett develops Integration of Occupational and Neighborhood Groups across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book advocates for a state that recognizes both neighborhood and occupational (economic) groups, arguing that labor, capital, and other functional groups must be integrated into the state's structure to overcome industrial conflict and create a unified, service-oriented society.
The discussion of the specialist and the nut-and-screw analogy illustrates how difference and specialization gain value only through relation to the whole, supporting the integration of diverse groups.
The individual's freedom to enter different groups with different functions illustrates the integration of multiple group affiliations.
The principle of thinking in wholes is applied to local and national interests, suggesting that true service to a small unit (like a town) leads to service to the larger whole (the nation).
Evidence in the book
- VII: The Individual
The discussion of the specialist and the nut-and-screw analogy illustrates how difference and specialization gain value only through relation to the whole, supporting the integration of diverse groups.
- X: Society
The individual's freedom to enter different groups with different functions illustrates the integration of multiple group affiliations.
- XI: The Self-and-Others Illusion
The principle of thinking in wholes is applied to local and national interests, suggesting that true service to a small unit (like a town) leads to service to the larger whole (the nation).
- The Group Principle at Work
Examines Trade Agreements and collective bargaining as methods for integrating labor and capital, moving beyond compromise toward community and joint control.
- From Contract to Community
The discussion of corporation law and the recognition of group personality reflects the integration of group principles into legal theory.
- XXII: Neighborhood Needs the Basis of Politics
Proposes that the neighborhood association should coordinate and integrate other local groups (trade unions, churches, clubs) into a cohesive community life.
- An Integrated Neighborhood
The chapter discusses how neighborhood centers integrate various activities (e.g., food conservation, recreation) to give community value to isolated efforts.
- XXVII: From Neighborhood to Nation: The Unifying State
The chapter calls for representation of multiple group types (neighborhood and occupational) in the state, and for conferences that include citizens alongside experts.
