Question

Consider the following statements on the features and premises of behavioral theory:

1. It is descriptive and empirical, focusing on actual organizational behavior through interdisciplinary methods from sociology and psychology.

2. David Easton's premises include regularities for prediction, verification via empirical testing, and value neutrality separating facts from ethics.

3. Behavioralism emphasizes provincial approaches, limiting explanations to specific organizational contexts unlike classical universalism.

• A. 1 and 3 only
• B. 1 and 2 only
• C. 2 and 3 only
• D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer 1

Answer:

B. 1 and 2 only

Behavioral Theory in Administration

• Focus and Methodology: Behavioral theory is an empirical and descriptive approach that analyzes actual organizational behavior. It draws heavily on sociology and psychology to understand human actions within organizations. This interdisciplinary nature is a key characteristic, distinguishing it from earlier, more rigid theories.
• Key Premises (Inspired by David Easton): While David Easton is primarily associated with political science, his premises on scientific inquiry resonate with the behavioral approach in administration. These include:
  • Regularities: Identifying patterns and consistent behaviors that allow for prediction.
  • Verification: The importance of testing hypotheses through empirical observation and data collection.
  • Value Neutrality: A commitment to separating objective facts from subjective ethical judgments or values. This ensures that analysis is based on what 'is' rather than what 'ought to be'.
• Provincialism vs. Universalism: Behavioralism tends to adopt a provincial approach. This means it emphasizes understanding organizational behavior within specific contexts, recognizing that factors unique to a particular organization or situation influence behavior. This contrasts with the 'classical' theories that often sought universal principles applicable everywhere. Behavioral theorists argue that context matters greatly in understanding and managing organizations.
• Shift from Classical Theory: Behavioral theory emerged as a reaction to the limitations of classical management theories (like Scientific Management and Bureaucracy), which often treated workers as cogs in a machine. Behavioral theorists, such as Elton Mayo (Hawthorne Studies), Chester Barnard, and Herbert Simon, highlighted the importance of human relations, motivation, communication, and informal groups in organizational effectiveness.
• Empirical Basis: A core tenet is the reliance on observed behavior and data. Research is conducted through surveys, interviews, and direct observation to gather evidence about how people actually behave and interact in organizations, rather than relying on assumptions or theoretical ideals.