Weber’s Theory Of Bureaucracy: Its Ideas And Characteristics
From the psychology of organizations, multiple theories have been proposed about the organization of work in companies. Today we will know one of them, Weber’s theory of bureaucracy
This theory arose to solve the limitations of classical theory and the theory of human relations which, on the other hand, were opposite and contradictory to each other. Thus, Weber proposed this rationalist theory through an efficient approach, being applicable to factories and different forms of human organization.
Maximilian Weber (1864-1920) was a philosopher, economist, jurist, historian, political scientist and sociologist German. He is considered the founder of the modern study of sociology and public administration.
Weber began the systematic study of bureaucracy. He developed a series of observations in relation to it and configured the conditions that contribute to it, with concepts such as the monetary economy, the capitalist system, the industrial revolution, etc.
Weber’s theory of bureaucracy
Weber’s theory of bureaucracy consists of a form of hierarchical work organization where officials or workers are specialized in their field and functions. For Weber, bureaucracy is an instrument of domination.
Weber establishes the conditions for a person with power to justify his legitimacy; Furthermore, he explains how the subjects over whom such power is exercised are subjected to it
In addition to legitimizing power, a certain degree of administrative organization is necessary for the exercise of power to be possible. The bureaucratic administrative organization proposed by Weber will provide the highest degree of efficiency in work and organization. The objective of such an organization will be to solve the problems of society and by extension those of the company.
As positive characteristics of his theory of bureaucracy versus other types of work organization, Weber defends that it is: precise, fast and uniform, among others. Furthermore, he highlights that his organization saves objective and personal costs
Types of society
Within his theory of bureaucracy, Weber proposes 3 types of society according to their characteristics:
1. Traditional society
Patriarchy and inheritance stand out (for example family).
2. Charismatic society
Mystical, arbitrary and personalistic characteristics stand out (for example, political parties).
3. Bureaucratic, rational or legal society
They stand out impersonal norms and rationality (for example large companies). From it he explains his theory of bureaucracy.
Types of legitimate authority
Likewise, Weber defines three types of legitimate authority:
Main ideas of his theory
Weber’s theory of bureaucracy raises three fundamental ideas characteristic of bureaucracy :
1. Legal nature of rules and regulations
There are a series of written rules and regulations in the bureaucracy, which are prepared in a detailed and rational way. These are consistent with the objectives of the bureaucracy.
Thus, the bureaucracy is based on its own legislation that defines its operation.
2. Impersonality
All rules, decisions and administrative issues will be formulated and recorded in writing
The commented legislation is made up of a series of abstract rules established in a rational and intentional way.
The person with authority has a series of functions, rights and obligations This guy has power because of his position.
On the other hand, the subject who obeys authority does so because the laws determine it, and not so much because he obeys the will of the boss.
4. Professionalization and rationality
Every professional You will be selected for your degree of preparation and specialization in the subject
The work to be developed will be considered as a career where one can be promoted (promoted) according to seniority, capacity and technical knowledge.
5. Maximum division of labor
There are a series of positions of power within the bureaucratic organization. Each position of power obeys a series of competencies which are delimited from a series of rules.
The positions are organized hierarchically; Thus, each position is under the control and supervision of a higher position. Each subject will be responsible for his decisions and actions, as well as those of his subordinates.
6. Determination of rules
The rules and regulations govern the conduct of workers Each of them is applied to each specific case and situation in a coherent way.
Effects of bureaucracy
Weber proposes a series of effects arising from his bureaucratic organization: on the one hand, bureaucratic organization will help to predict human behavior, and on the other, it will facilitate the standardization of workers’ performance.
As mentioned above, the ultimate objective will be have greater efficiency in all processes and positions developed in the company that is, the maximum efficiency of the organization.
