Nevertheless, McGregor started to question the validity of Theory X, especially in the context of the
contemporary and democratic society. Using Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, McGregor concluded that Theory
X is not universally applicable, as its assumptions about human nature are in many cases inaccurate. In addition, most of the management practices developed from these assumptions failed to motivate individuals
to work for attaining the organizational goals. McGregor highlighted that these methods are not applicable to
people whose physiological and safety needs are satisfied, while social esteem and needs
are becoming more important. Moreover, he considers work very similar to play, as both are physical and
mental activities. Nevertheless, under Theory X management, there is a clear distinction between them, as on
the one hand play is controlled by the individual, while on the other hand work is controlled by others.
Therefore, people look for any excuse not to go to work , in order to satisfy social and self
needs, especially if they have enough money for the basic needs. Under these circumstances, people do not
find work challenging at all and consider it more like a necessary evil.