Bureaucracy Theory
- Theory / Concept Name
- Bureaucracy Theory
- Description
Max Weber's Bureaucracy Theory
Max Weber described the ideal bureaucracy as the most efficient form of organisation, characterised by:
Features of Ideal Bureaucracy
- Division of labour: Clearly defined tasks and specialisation.
- Hierarchy of authority: Clear chain of command with defined levels.
- Formal rules and procedures: Written, impersonal guidelines govern all actions.
- Impersonality: Decisions made based on rules, not personal feelings.
- Career orientation: Officials are career employees selected on technical competence.
- Formal selection: Hiring based on qualifications and exams, not patronage.
Types of Authority (Weber)
- Traditional authority — Based on custom and tradition.
- Charismatic authority — Based on personal qualities of the leader.
- Rational-legal authority — Based on formal rules and laws; the basis of bureaucracy.
Weber argued rational-legal authority is superior for large organisations in modern society.
- Theorist / Pioneer
- Max Weber
- Year
- 1922
- Category
- Classical