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Democratic Hierarchies in the Workplace: Structural Dilemmas and Organizational Action

Author

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  • Frances A. Viggiani

    (Alfred University, New York)

Abstract

Case data from an ethnographic study of six experimental firms illustrate characteristic dilemmas and patterns of action in organizational groups espousing participatory democracy. The article explores what the author calls 'democratic hierarchies' through vignettes from each case that highlight a particular dilemma or pattern of behavior. Three problematic aspects of democratic hierarchies discussed include hierarchy and accountability; hierarchy and authority; and hierarchy and ownership. Three recurrent behaviors include holding democratic values and business decisions in tension; participating in multiple forums, including attention to group process; and developing democratic repertoires and rituals.

Suggested Citation

  • Frances A. Viggiani, 1997. "Democratic Hierarchies in the Workplace: Structural Dilemmas and Organizational Action," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 18(2), pages 231-260, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:18:y:1997:i:2:p:231-260
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X97182004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Niels Mygind & Charles P. Rock, 1993. "Financial Participation and the Democratization of Work," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 14(2), pages 163-183, May.
    2. Chris Cornforth & Alan Thomas, 1990. "Cooperative Development: Barriers, Support Structures and Cultural Factors," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 11(4), pages 451-461, November.
    3. Estrin, Saul, 1991. "Some reflections on self-management, social choice, and reform in eastern europe," Journal of Comparative Economics, Elsevier, vol. 15(2), pages 349-366, June.
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    Cited by:

    1. Ronald Hartz & Markus Tümpel & Melanie Hühn & Irma Rybnikova, 2024. "Handling the organizing paradox: A multiple case study of German cooperatives," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 45(4), pages 1112-1136, November.

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