The meanings and normative importance of rationality vary widely in organization theories. This is an issue of immense significance, since the meanings of rationality largely determine the particular manner in which organizational effectiveness and ef...
The meanings and normative importance of rationality vary widely in organization theories. This is an issue of immense significance, since the meanings of rationality largely determine the particular manner in which organizational effectiveness and efficiency are construed and ranked in relation to other normative criteria of organizational performance. Differences of opinion about the meaning of rationality reflect differing priorities regarding the relation of ends and means.
Rationality in classical theories in the 'means-end' sense instrumental rationality to promote the efficiency of organizations. And in neo-classical theories, the meaning of rationality refers to instrumental attainment of preconceived ends under conditions of uncertainty. In systems theories which consider organization as purpose entities, the meaning of rationality refers to adapting to imperatives for organizational survival and attaining collective purposes. The meaning of rationality in later human relations theories refers to meeting needs for self-actualization in the face of organizational imperatives for instrumental rationality.