What are the basic features of bureaucracy?
Bureaucratic authority is characterised by several basic features. Firstly, the Functioning of Officials involves fixed areas of jurisdiction governed by rules and laws. Official duties are distributed in a fixed manner, and officials are employed based on requisite qualifications. The official position is independent of the incumbent, continuing beyond their tenure.
Secondly, there is a Hierarchical Ordering of Positions where authority is placed in a graded order. Higher officials supervise the lower ones, providing a scope for appeal against decisions. Thirdly, bureaucracy relies on Written Documents for its management. Other features include Office Management and Conduct in Office.
Explanation
The answer is derived directly from the textbook context which lists five features of bureaucratic authority: (i) Functioning of Officials, (ii) Hierarchical Ordering of Positions, (iii) Reliance on Written Document, (iv) Office Management, and (v) Conduct in Office. The explanation elaborates on the first three points as detailed in the provided text, noting the fixed jurisdiction, the graded hierarchy, and the use of written documents.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the list of features from the context: Functioning of Officials, Hierarchical Ordering of Positions, Reliance on Written Document, Office Management, and Conduct in Office.
Step 2: Elaborate on 'Functioning of Officials' using the provided details (fixed jurisdiction, rules, qualifications, independence of position).
Step 3: Elaborate on 'Hierarchical Ordering' (graded hierarchy, supervision, appeal) and 'Reliance on Written Document'.
Step 4: Combine these points into a coherent short answer within the word limit.