Organizing America

More about the book

The book explores the transformation of American society from family firms and decentralized power to large bureaucratic organizations by the end of the nineteenth century. Yale sociologist Charles Perrow argues against the notion that this shift was a natural outcome of technological progress and market efficiency. Instead, he highlights the critiques of corporate monopolies, political influence, environmental harm, and labor exploitation that arose during this period. The narrative examines how these changes challenged the nation's commitment to individual freedom and public goods.