Final answer:
A major criticism of the classical theories of management is that they were too rigid and inflexible.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major criticism of the classical theories of management has been that they were too rigid and inflexible. One example of a classical theory of management is Frederick Winslow Taylor's scientific management approach, which focused on maximizing productivity and efficiency in the workplace. Taylor believed that workers were fundamentally lazy and needed to be closely monitored and controlled. This approach was criticized for its lack of consideration for worker well-being and its discouragement of new ideas.