Question

Assertion (A): Behavioral approach replaces sovereignty with legitimacy theory, emphasizing why individuals obey through motivation.

Reason (R): It prioritizes formal communication and hierarchical chains over informal relations and leadership analysis.

• A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
• C. A is true, but R is false
• D. A is false, but R is true

Answer 1

Answer:

C. A is true, but R is false

Behavioral Approach in Administration

• The Behavioral Approach to administration shifted focus from the formal structure and rules (as emphasized in the Classical Approach) to the actual behavior of individuals within organizations.
• It argues that understanding human behavior, motivations, and group dynamics is crucial for effective administration.
• Instead of solely focusing on sovereignty or hierarchical authority, this approach emphasizes legitimacy theory. Legitimacy theory posits that authority is obeyed not just because of formal power, but because subordinates perceive the authority as legitimate and rightful.
• Key figures associated with the behavioral approach include Herbert Simon (bounded rationality), Chris Argyris (immaturity-maturity theory), and the researchers involved in the Hawthorne Studies (demonstrating the importance of social and psychological factors).
• The Hawthorne Studies, conducted at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works in Cicero, Illinois, revealed that increased attention and social interaction among workers led to improved productivity, regardless of changes in physical working conditions. This highlighted the significance of informal groups and human relations.

Critique of the Reason

• The statement that the behavioral approach prioritizes formal communication and hierarchical chains over informal relations and leadership analysis is incorrect.
• In fact, the behavioral approach actively critiques the overemphasis on formal structures found in earlier theories. It champions the study of informal relations, group dynamics, and the nuances of leadership that go beyond mere positional authority.
• It delves into the psychological and social factors that influence employee behavior and organizational effectiveness, which are often overlooked in purely hierarchical models.