Future of Modernization

Evolution of Formal Organization
Stella Thomas
SOC120
Robert Bruce
November 20, 2011

A formal organization is structured with a chain of command. This type of organization has many levels of management, with clearly defined duties and responsibilities. The activities of a formal organization are distinct and highly specialized. Formal organizations have defined rules and regulations established to govern specific procedures and operations. The members of formal organizations are technically competent to carry out assigned tasks. Communication in formal organizations is formal and in writing. Formal organizations are task oriented.
Social groups consist of two types-the primary group which is a small social group whose members share personal and lasting relationships. Formal organizations are part of the secondary group. This group is comprised of members who pursue a specific goal or activity. There is little or no emotional ties within a formal organization and members have little or no personal knowledge of each other.
Over the last century formal organizations have evolved to include three types. One type is the utilitarian organization. This type includes people who work to earn a living. Another type is the normative organization. This group of people exists in pursuit of a goal they think is morally worthwhile. These are voluntary associations and include community service groups, the League of Women Voters, and the Red Cross. The coercive organization is the third type of formal organization and its membership is involuntary. These organizations exist as a form of punishment in the form of imprisonment, and treatment in the form of psychiatric hospitals. The members of this type of formal organization are isolated from society for a period of time to change their behavior and attitudes.
A century ago formal organizations lacked technology. This made it difficult to travel long distances and to communicate quickly. Today formal...