C.I. Lewis and Deming's theory of knowledge

W. Edwards Deming's theory of management has had significant impact on the way managers have understood their role in recent times. An important influence on his philosophy was the work of C.I. Lewis in an area of philosophy known as epistemology, or theory of knowledge. This article examines Lewis's influence on Deming, connects it to a larger intellectual context, and draws out the implications for the work of management.