From the Authors

Global warming, economic uncertainty, poverty, discrimination, unemployment, illiteracy—these are among the many issues and problems we now face. But how often do we stop and accept responsibility for problem solving and positive action in an increasingly complex world? What we do today will have a lasting impact on future generations. And whether we are talking about families, communities, nations, or the organizations in which we work and volunteer, the core question remains: How can we join together to best serve society?

Look at the cover and think about people with goals and aspirations. Think about people working together and collaborating around the world. Think about how people can expand the positive impact of society's institutions when their ideas and talents come together in supportive and nurturing work settings. And think about the delicate balances—between work and family, between individuals and teams, and between organizations and society—that must be mastered in the quest for future prosperity.

Yes, our students do have a lot to consider in the complex and ever-shifting world of today. But, we believe they are up to the challenge. And, we believe that courses in organizational behavior have strong roles to play in building their capabilities to make good judgments and move organizational performance forward in positive and responsible ways.

That message is a fitting place to begin Organizational Behavior, 13th Edition. Everyone wants to have a useful and satisfying job and career; everyone wants all the organizations of society—small and large businesses, hospitals, schools, governments, nonprofits, and more—to perform well; everyone seeks a healthy and sustainable environment. In this context the lessons of our discipline are strong and applicable. Armed with an understanding of organizational behavior, great things are possible as people work, pursue careers, and contribute to society through positive personal and organizational accomplishments.

Organizational behavior is rich with insights for career and life skills. As educators, our job is to engage students and share with them the great power of knowledge, understanding, and inquiry that characterizes our discipline. What our students do with their talents will not only shape how organizations perform, but also fundamentally contribute to society and alter lives around the globe. Our job is to help them gain the understanding and confidence to become leaders of tomorrow's organizations.

MARY UHL-BIEN
University of Nebraska

JOHN R. SCHERMERHORN, JR.
Ohio University

RICHARD N. OSBORN
Wayne State University