Cohanier, Bruno

Paternalism as a long-term control system: A historical look at the “Michelin System” - 2021.


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The Michelin Group was founded in 1889 in Clermont-Ferrand by two brothers, André and Édouard Michelin. Since its inception, this company has deployed a paternalistic control system, offering various “privileges” to its employees. In return, the founders and successive CEOs have sought “loyalty” and “diligent” work. Based on a historical method, this article proposes to shed light on the control system from a cultural angle, then in its relationship to paternalism. It sets out the stages in the evolution of the control system at Michelin by proposing a discussion in this regard.