Diversity in Organizations by Myrtle P. Bell

Diversity in Organizations by Myrtle P. Bell is a comprehensive, research-based examination of diversity within the modern workplace, exploring how differences among employees affect organisations, management practices, workplace culture and organisational effectiveness. Published by Thomson South-Western in 2007, this substantial 492-page volume was designed as a text for courses in organisational diversity and provides an academic yet accessible introduction to a subject that has become increasingly important in business and human resource management.

Bell approaches organisational diversity from multiple perspectives, examining not only why diversity matters but also the practical challenges involved in recruiting, retaining and fairly managing a diverse workforce. Diversity in Organizations considers diversity legislation alongside broader theories of organisational diversity, giving readers a framework for understanding both the social and managerial dimensions of the subject.

A particularly useful aspect is its detailed consideration of different forms of diversity. Bell examines race and ethnicity, sex and gender, religion, work and family, age, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, and weight and appearance. This broad scope makes the book useful for understanding how multiple identities and experiences can influence workplace relationships, opportunities and organisational practices.

Diversity in Organizations also moves beyond simply identifying differences, considering how organisations can become more inclusive and diversity-friendly. It discusses strategies for effectively utilising a diverse workforce and addresses the experiences of groups that have historically been undervalued in professional environments.

Myrtle P. Bell was a management scholar at the University of Texas at Arlington whose research focused extensively on diversity and social issues at work. Her academic work appeared in major management and organisational psychology journals, while she was also active within the Academy of Management’s Gender and Diversity in Organizations division.

With its substantial coverage of workplace diversity, organisational behaviour, human resource management and inclusion, Diversity in Organizations is a useful academic reference for students, managers, HR professionals and readers interested in workplace culture and the management of increasingly diverse organisations.

Conditions: Very Good – Light shelf wear and foxing present.