A hierarchical chain of command in which the top bureaucrat has ultimate authority, and the power flows down from there.Weber defined certain characteristics of a bureaucracy: Max Weber, a German sociologist known for being the architect of modern sociology, viewed bureaucracy as the best way to achieve organization in government, and in large business. Unfortunately, in this example of bureaucracy, Caitlyn’s request for a shortened application process based on hardship is caught up in red tape, and will probably take just as long as it would to simply wait it out. Asking for an exception to the department’s two-week rule sends the application up the line, where it is likely reviewed by more than one individual before a decision is rendered on the granting of benefits more quickly. There is a set list of procedures, and strict policies, that govern what the social workers must do, what they must check into, and whom they will notify, for each application. When a worker calls out Caitlyn’s name for an interview, she answers each question honestly, but throughout the interview Caitlyn tries to express her concern about needing help right away, as she has almost no food at home. Caitlyn finally breaks down and applies for SNAP benefits (previously called “Food Stamps”). She is having a difficult time providing the basic necessities, as she is caught between a rock and a hard place – she cannot work because it costs more to hire a daycare provider than she will make each week. Strict rules and regulations, without allowing specialized employees to deviate from the narrow path in order to do their jobs in unusual circumstances, lead these employees to become defensive, and eventually indifferent to the needs of some individuals.Įxample of Bureaucracy in Government BenefitsĬaitlyn’s husband left her to care for their three children on her own. In reality, governmental bureaucracy is seen in poor light by the citizens it is sworn to serve. By requiring strict compliance with the organization’s policies and procedures, and following a specified chain of command, it becomes possible to make order from chaos. It is believed that large organizations, whether governmental or private, cannot be run smoothly without compartmentalization and oversight. England’s taxation system has been modified over the years, and today’s HM Revenue and Customs bears the responsibility for taxation. The Department of Excise held its employees to a strict hierarchy. In more modern times, the United Kingdom instituted a form of bureaucracy during the 18th century, by forming the Department of Excise to collect taxes. Bureaucracy can be seen as far back as Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire, when scribes used clay tablets to administer fruits of harvest.