Max Weber and Herbert Marcuse on Bureaucratic Rationalism (Research Paper Sample)

Max Weber and Herbert Marcuse on Bureaucratic Rationalism
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Max Weber in his theory of bureaucratic rationalism identified various aspects that have an impact on the modern society. In his written works that clearly define how modern bureaucratic will penetrate the modern capitalistic societies, he seems to be concerned about the potential effects that will cause the changes to occur. Bureaucratic rationalism can be defined as the domination of certain knowledge and aspects that allow certain things to be known.
To begin with, Max Weber points out that as an organization, bureaucracy subjects the individuals to an oppressive domineering routine. This is because the individuals are left to repeat the same tasks all over again with the aim of establishing efficiency while doing the same task with speed and accuracy. Max mentions that bureaucratic rationalism limits personal freedom and tends to favour the ‘crippled personality’ who is used to doing the same things over and over again without any room for creativity and progress.
In the political arena, Max fear that the bureaucratic rationalism can become a strong political force and end up becoming a danger when the force oversteps the proper function of its mandate. This is especially true when the force attempts to control the rule of law rather than being subject to it. Thus he points out that bureaucrat should stay out of politics and limit himself to impartial administration.
In line with the above idea of limiting oneself out of politics, it seems to point to the drawing of lines of public administration. In the extensive chapter about the office and its responsibilities, he points out that one position and efficient work place role is defined by the papers he has and his skill. He points out the fear in modern society where in a democratic way, roles have been overstepped and the monotony of routine overruled with new innovative ways to do work. In the rapidly changing office, he lays his fears that unless an adaptive mentality is adopted, bureaucratic rationalism may not work in the near future.
Max also mentions about having equality before the law. He points out that in the near future and as democracy advances, the poor ‘property less’ masses become enlightened and begin to push for their rights. He mentions that they will come to reason and push for equality before the law. Thus they cannot be exploited into doing the same repeat work for less. They will start to be creative in their own way and push for equal opportunities.