For Formal Organization: The Past in the Present and Future of Organization Theory [Hardcover] du Gay and Vikkelsø

A refreshingly unapologetic defence of formal organisation in an era obsessed with disruption and flat hierarchies. du Gay and Vikkelsø make a compelling case for why bureaucracy—yes, that bureaucracy—might actually be the unsung hero of modern institutional life. Drawing on rich historical analysis and contemporary organisational theory, they challenge the relentless critique of formal structures and reveal how they enable fairness, accountability, and democratic governance. It's intellectually rigorous but surprisingly readable, weaving together sociology, management studies, and political theory. Perfect for academics, organisational consultants, and anyone who's ever wondered whether all that corporate soul-searching about 'agile workplaces' might be missing something fundamental.