The feudal model and the study of modern organizations
International Journal of Organization Theory & Behavior
ISSN: 1093-4537
Article publication date: 1 March 2009
Abstract
This article investigates the possibility of studying modern organizations with the feudal model. We introduce feudalism as an ideal type and explain why it is necessary for understanding organizations. The model synthesizes several perspectives on intra-organizational conflict. After defining the feudal model and tracing its theoretical roots, we review several empirical studies to identify the conditions under which feudal conflicts arise. These factors include decentralization, structural interdependence, uncertainty and informal power. The feudal model highlights several overlooked aspects of organizations, including personal relations, the manipulation of formal rules, bribery, corruption and sabotage. However, given the model's limitations, we propose a “segmented approach” to social analysis, which emphasizes the need for multiple models to explain any organization, past or present.
Citation
Woods, J. and Shlapentokh, V. (2009), "The feudal model and the study of modern organizations", International Journal of Organization Theory & Behavior, Vol. 12 No. 4, pp. 521-557. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOTB-12-04-2009-B001
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2009 by Pracademics Press