Robert Owens (UK. 1771 – 1858): Robert Owens, the promoter of co-operative and trade union movement in England, emphasized the recognition of human element in industry. He firmly believed that workers’ performance in industry was influenced by the working
conditions and treatment of workers. He introduced new ideas of human relations – shorter working hours, housing facilities, training of workers in hygiene, education of their children, provision of canteen etc. Robert Owen, managed a group of textile mills in Lanark, Scotland,
where he used his ideas of human relations. Though his approach was paternalistic, he carne to be regarded as the father of Personnel Management.
