In class we discussed Max Weber and
his thoughts on the bureaucratic system. I’ll be honest, I didn’t really know
what a bureaucracy was until we discussed the ideal-type of bureaucracy. Here is another video clip to help understand what a bureaucracy is.
I
think the in class example of a university is a great way to think about it and
you can relate it to the six major characteristics of the ideal bureaucracy.
Looking at our education system we can see that teachers are professional and
well qualified to educate the students. These individuals received prior
training before they were hired because they wouldn’t be hired unless the met
specific credentials. These teachers and staff are also a part of a structured
hierarchy within the system. Professors listen to the chair, the chair listens
to the Dean and the Dean listens to the Chancellor. All of these people work
together to keep everything on file for every student such as grade reports,
GPA’s, and degree progress reports. With in the school system there are rules
and regulations for all of the workers to follow in order for the system to run
smooth and efficient. Our
university may not be the most cutthroat efficient bureaucracy but I’d say it
runs pretty smoothly.
What I find most relatable to today
is Weber’s thoughts on rationalization. He describes this as the process of how
a society gets to a bureaucracy. Weber argues that individuals are living their
lives based on rational and logical choices. He does not say this is
necessarily a good or bad thing, but it limits our choices and goals in life.
People are only making choices on rationalization. Some basic characteristics
of rationality are efficiency, predictability, and control. I can see this
theory of rationality happening today. My brother graduated college at the age
of 23. He wasn’t entirely certain what he’d like to pursue for a career so he
bounced around for a while. Today, he is 25 and pursing something he is really
passionate about: hunting. He writes blogs and takes amazing photography of all
of his adventures. He started writing for the local newspaper and even had some
of his writings in a big time hunting magazine. On the side, my brother does
some freelance family photography. He lives comfortably on the money he makes
from his photography and writing for the newspaper, which he considers a hobby.
He is so happy because he is living life and doing what he loves, but my
parents and other close friends are hard critics. He is not living the ideal
rational life. He doesn’t have a solid career with a solid, steady paycheck.
Now, my brother loves his life and finds the uncertainty just a part of the
adventure of life, but the general public is shaken by the unpredictability and
uncertainties of his lifestyle. I can see how rationality holds people back
from achieving higher dreams. It holds us back from our human potential, and
I’m proud that my brother doesn’t conform to societies beliefs because he is
happy.
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ReplyDeleteThis was a very interesting read. I thought that the video was very entertaining in terms of describing bureaucracy. Your explanation of rationalization was clear and easy to follow. Also, the personal example you used, I would think, helps people relate to it in further explaining that idea. The only thing that would have been a nice addition to your blog would have been a little description of the video. What did you think of it? How did you interpret it to relate to current society?
ReplyDeleteThoughly enjoyed your post. The video was a nice touch and it reminded me of my last visit at the DMV.
ReplyDeleteThe UW is most certainly a bureaucracy, good example.
The best part of your blog was sharing your brothers story. I can imagine the angst of your parents (and your brother) when he made a decision to do something out of the "normal" arc of society.
...Trying to think of a negative comment (you made such a nice post)...
You mentioned that sometimes rational behavior holds back human potential, Why does society embrace rationality over tradition? Is there a good reason society does this?