OPINI: Journal of Communication and Social Science
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): OPINI: Journal of Communication and Social Science

REVISITING CLASSICAL ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION THEORIES IN CONTEMPORARY ORGANIZATIONS: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC MANAGEMENT, HUMAN RELATIONS, AND BUREAUCRATIC THEORIES

Nesa Fatma Melisa Ritonga (Unknown)
Fadhillah Nur Annisaa (Unknown)
Nadya Rahmatika Ghania Mahidh (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Mar 2026

Abstract

This article critically examines the development and contemporary relevance of three classical organizational communication theories: Scientific Management, Human Relations, and Bureaucratic Theory. Using a qualitative library research approach with a structured critical literature review, the study analyzes selected scholarly sources to compare the historical foundations, communication assumptions, epistemological contributions, and limitations of each theory. The findings show that the development of organizational communication theory is not a simple linear shift from one perspective to another, but a continuing interaction among three analytical logics: control, participation, and formal legitimacy. Scientific Management frames communication as an instrument of efficiency and supervision, Human Relations emphasizes interpersonal interaction and employee participation, and Bureaucratic Theory highlights communication as a mechanism of procedural order and accountability. The study concludes that these classical theories remain relevant in contemporary, digital, and post-bureaucratic organizations because they continue to explain how organizations negotiate ongoing productivity, collaboration, and institutional structure today.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

opini

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

OPINI: Jurnal of Communication and Social Science is an international journal that focuses on the scholarly study of communication and social science. The journal is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge in the field by promoting the publication of innovative research and theoretical ...