• A type of organization whose goal is to maximize efficiency and results- Noted by Max Weber

• Characteristics:– Hierarchy with assignments flowing downward and

accountability flowing upward– Division of labor- each worker has a specific task– Written rules– Written communications and records-memos– Impersonality- individual is not important, you are

replaceable • Once they exist they tend to perpetuate

themselves by replacing old goals for new ones- GOAL DISPLACEMENT• Example: March of Dimes-original goal to fight

polio, changed goal after Jonas Salk discover vaccine

Webster predicted the bureaucracies would dominate social life because they are a powerful form of social organizationCalled this processed the rationalization of

society

Red Tape: A Rule is a RuleSo bound by rules that the results can defy logic

Bureaucratic AlienationWorkers begin to feel like objects rather than people

Resisting AlienationForm primary groups at workCorral around the water coolerDecorate their cubicles

Peter principle- people are promoted to their level of incompetence

People who “have what it takes” to get ahead are put on the fast track for promotions Work harder, more committed to the

company Others who don’t look or act like

corporate leaders are given fewer opportunities

This hidden values remain unseen• Females and minorities don’t match the

hidden values and are treated differently