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The Social Production of Indifference: Exploring the Symbolic Roots of Western Bureaucracy

Hardback

Main Details

Title The Social Production of Indifference: Exploring the Symbolic Roots of Western Bureaucracy
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Michael Herzfeld
SeriesGlobal Issues
Physical Properties
Format:Hardback
Pages:220
Dimensions(mm): Height 216,Width 138
ISBN/Barcode 9780854966387
ClassificationsDewey:302.35
Audience
Tertiary Education (US: College)
Professional & Vocational

Publishing Details

Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Imprint Berg Publishers
Publication Date 20 February 1992
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

In this fascinating book, Michael Herzfeld argues that 'modern' bureaucratically regulated societies are no more 'rational' or less 'symbolic' than the societies traditionally studied by anthropologists. Drawing primarily on the example of modern Greece and utilizing other European materials, he suggests that we cannot understand national bureaucracies divorced from local-level ideas about chance, personal character, social relationships and responsibility. He points out that both formal regulations and day-to-day bureaucratic practices rely heavily on the symbols and language of the moral boundaries between insiders and outsiders; a ready means of expressing prejudice and of justifying neglect. It therefore happens that societies with proud traditions of generous hospitality may paradoxically produce at the official level some of the most calculated indifference one can find anywhere.

Author Biography

Michael Herzfeld is Professor of Anthropology, Harvard University

Reviews

'A small book packed with large insights'. Choice