The History of Human Resource Development

Book excerpt: The history of human resource development embraces humankind's investment in one another's skills, knowledge, and abilities. As the field transitions into a more mature discipline, there is a need to understand the philosophies upon which certain theories and methodologies are based. Providing a historical narrative of HRD from the beginning of human history through modern times, this book reveals the consistent interaction between the philosophies of the time, theories, and methods of people management and how these philosophies impact what is known as HRD today. Drs. Gosney and Hughes offer a robust examination of HRD and provide a methodology for critical thinking to better understand the theories and assumptions of the field. They provide a model whereby scholars and practitioners can better understand and evaluate modern HRD through the context of HRD history.