Max Weber’s Theory of Bureaucracy and the Neo-Weberian Synthesis

Abstract

Firstly, the paper analyses the different interpretation of Weber’s theory on bureaucracy. It contains an overview of the relation between the original Weberian theory and the viewpoint of the followers of Max Weber. It points out the difference between the original theory and the standpoint of the Weberian scholars. A special focus is given to the different interpretation of the term “idealtype”. Another methodological issue is the term “rationality” and the mutual impact among the types of rationality (practical-, theoretical-, substantive- and formal rationality). The paper deals with the practical importance of Weber’s theory on bureaucracy and then it deals with the impact of knowledge-intensive society on public administration. After raising the crucial question of whether the original theory of Weber is up-to-date nowadays the paper concludes that the original theory supports the formulation of relevant questions and in some cases the statements of Weber are of prophetical importance.