The feudal model and the study of modern organizations
Joshua Woods|Vladimir Shlapentokh
This article investigates the possibility of studying modern organizations with 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 tracing its theoretical roots, we review empirical studies to identify conditions under which conflicts arise. These factors include decentralization, structural interdependence, uncertainty informal power. highlights overlooked aspects organizations, including personal relations, manipulation formal rules, bribery, corruption sabotage. However, given model's limitations, propose a “segmented approach” social analysis, emphasizes need multiple models any organization, past or present.
International Journal of Organization Theory and Behavior