Formal organization: A comparative method

Author: Peter M. Blau
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-04-18
Features: This book analyzes some of the main aspects of organizational life from a sociological perspective. We will discuss the nature and types of formal organizations, interorganizational relationships, the social context in which organizations exist, and various aspects of their internal structure, such as peer relationships and hierarchical relationships, communication and management processes, as well as impersonal control mechanisms. As we delve into each topic, we will explore many studies and related literature on organizations. However, our goal is not to cover all the literature. This work cannot be accomplished in a single book, as there are simply too many books and articles on the subject. With the help of Patricia Denton, the extensive bibliography at the end of the book lists only one-third of the original materials we collected; our compilation work is still far from being thorough. What we aim to do is select some empirical studies and general discussions that will help clarify the specific issues we address. We will often present our own research on organizations, not only because we are familiar with this material but also to enhance the coherence of empirical examples.