Module 1: Introduction to the Sociology of Organisations & Institutions Flashcards
What is an organisation?
It is a collectivity with a relatively identifiable boundary, with rules, hierarchy, and procedures that exist on a relatively continuous basis— working towards a set of goals with outcome (e.g. CSO orgs)
What is an institution?
It is an organisation that governs a specific field of action (e.g. educational institutions: colleges and universities)
What is the difference between an organisation and an institution?
Organisations - target-specific organisations (e.g. NGOs, LGUs, local charismatic church community)
Institutions - standard and norm; shape the creation and spreading of organisational forms (e.g. government, churches/religion)
What is the role of organisations in Social Life?
It is everywhere in our lives and a part of society. We are born into a society and die in a society as it is inevitable to escape from it. As they say, “no man is an island.” Organisations shape society (i.e. spreading of religion, forming hierarchy in a company, etc.)
Can organisations act as a change agent?
Yes, it can. An example of this is protestors and their right to protest peacefully. They are a collective organisation that gather to enact their right to protest and critcise the government (working towards a set of goals).
Can organisations also act as resisters of change?
Yes, they can, especially if these organisations are extremely conservative in preserving their traditions, norms, social order, and hierarchy, which can form into a culture. This can be similar to male-dominated fields in the workforce (e.g. engineering, military) where majority of their labour population are males and is centered around a patriarchal culture.
What is the relevance of organisational sociology?
It is the lifeblood of society, especially well-functioning organisations since they aid in realising individuals their potential and aspirations. However, it can also be a tool for exploitation for business profit.
Organisational sociology is relevant in order to study and understand society and what is happening around it.
