Week 4, post#5

Organizational Goals and Ways to Achieve Them
I found this section (Chapter 3, p62) very interesting. The German political theorist, Robert Michel believed that over time that all organizations move to oligarchy (a small group holding power for the whole organization). I tend to agree with this theory. Even the concept of the hierarchical system we discussed earlier in the week seems to lend itself to this eventuality. The top leader surrounds herself with a small group (chiefs) that will go out and make sure that they (leadership) remain in control and that the wishes and the goals of the leader are met.

Will the leadership look to the organization for new ideas and solutions? Do they feel that now is their time and they will decide what direction the organization will follow?

Creating a balance of power between the leadership and the organization (masses) that is built on the hierarchical system would be very difficult. I believe that leadership, in any organization, that is confident to know that they are in this role as stewards and not as rulers will have an easier time of building an environment that is progressive and open to change.