Without Sympathy or Enthusiasm: The Problem of Administrative Compassion
Without Sympathy or Enthusiasm: The Problem of Administrative Compassion
by Victor A. Thompson
University of Alabama Press, 2007 Paper: 978-0-8173-5434-3 | eISBN: 978-0-8173-8987-1
ABOUT THIS BOOK | REVIEWS | TOC
ABOUT THIS BOOK
This classic study brings to bear the findings and principles of political science, sociology, psychology, and economics on various proposals for the solution of ills traditionally associated with governmental administration.
REVIEWS
"This is an extraordinary book, a true intellectual tour de force. Thompson sets out to discuss the conflict between bureaucratic action dictated by the norms of impersonal objectivity, rationality, and efficiency, and the need to recognize and satisfy exceptional, individual demands—the need for organizational compassion. The author succeeds in making highly insightful and often challenging observations."
—Canadian Journal of Political Science
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"A delightful book which is small in size but large with intelligent analysis. . . . This clearly written book is highly recommended." —Choice
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"Undeniably on target in introducing the clash between individual and organizational imperatives as one of the key problems of modern bureaucracy." —Journal of Politics
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
1.
The Problem Defined
2.
The Nature of Modern Organizations
3.
Solutions: Personnel Administration
4.
Solutions: Organization Development and Sensitivity Training
5.
Solutions: Smaller Units
6.
Solutions: Combining Roles
7.
Solutions: Political Machines and Prefectural Administration