Sources of beurocratic power: societal complexity, political advantages, bureaucratic expansionism, incrementalism
The Federal bureaucracy is given discretionary authority, which basicly gives it the power to make policies not spelled out in constitution. This power has allowed the bureaucracy to grow, and given them independence.
The power of the bureaucracy has changed in the last 200 years in that it has increased and become more powerful. Some of these changes have come about through amendments to the Constitution.
Special interest groups check the power of bureaucracy with their constant monitoring and resultant publicity of actions. Special interest groups can create a false sense of urgency or need on a topic.
The Federal Reserve has the power to establish monetary policy, like inflation, deflation, and interest rates. This power is not given to any entity by the Constitution except Congress, making the Fed's activities unconstitutional. Similar things can be said of almost any agency you can think of: the IRS, SEC, FTC...They all have the ability to make rules and at times the ability to enforce them. The problem is that the Constitution vests legislative power in Congress only and executive power in the President's office only. Currently, and for the past 100 years, we have unelected bureaucratic government officials usurping the power (or, Congress and the President have let their power be usurped, depending on your perspective) that is not given them by the Constitution. How will the people have any recourse in this matter, if the people cannot elect someone in the place of the existing bureaucracy?
Federal departments and agencies would be relatively small
Three sources of the major bureaucratic power are size, expertise and delegation of power. As the USA has grown in size, the budget of the bureaucracy has as well, and money has a lot of influence in the world today. In our 300 plus years of being the United States, the people in power have gained more and more expertise in the government as the years go on, which helps the bureaucracy to make good decisions when it comes to its power. The bureaucracy also has delegated its power to a wide array of agencies, which has only expanded its influence over the years. (found this answer on a test in my university's government & politics class.)
The Federal bureaucracy is given discretionary authority, which basicly gives it the power to make policies not spelled out in constitution. This power has allowed the bureaucracy to grow, and given them independence.
Richard Chackerian has written: 'Bureaucratic power in society' -- subject(s): Bureaucracy, Social change, Power (Social sciences)
The federal bureaucracy can limit the power of the president by implementing regulations and policies that may not align with the president's agenda, effectively acting as a check on executive authority. Bureaucratic agencies, staffed by career civil servants, often have expertise and institutional knowledge that can resist political pressures. Additionally, the bureaucracy operates under laws passed by Congress, which can constrain presidential actions by requiring compliance with established procedures and oversight. This diffusion of power ensures that the president cannot unilaterally dictate policy without consideration of bureaucratic processes and legislative intent.
Some disadvantages of bureaucracy include inefficiency due to red tape and bureaucratic hurdles, slow decision-making processes, lack of flexibility to adapt to changing conditions, and potential for corruption or abuse of power by those in positions of authority.
In "Animal Farm," George Orwell satirizes bureaucracy through the absurdity and inefficiency of the pigs' governance. The constant revisions of the Seven Commandments illustrate how those in power manipulate rules to suit their needs, highlighting the arbitrary nature of bureaucratic systems. Characters like Squealer embody the obfuscation and doublespeak typical of bureaucratic language, making it difficult for the other animals to grasp the truth. This critique underscores the way bureaucratic processes can become a tool of oppression rather than a means of organization.
The president has the ability to check the power of the bureaucracy. He does this by vetoing bills that have made it through congress if he disagrees with them. This keeps congress from passing laws unchecked.
The court system influences the federal bureaucracy by interpreting laws and regulations, which can shape how these agencies operate and implement policies. Judicial rulings can uphold or strike down bureaucratic actions, thereby setting legal precedents that guide future agency decisions. Additionally, courts can provide checks on bureaucratic power, ensuring that agencies act within their legal authority and adhere to due process. This interplay helps maintain a balance between regulatory enforcement and individual rights.
Max Weber identified several disadvantages of bureaucracy, including its potential for rigidity and inflexibility, which can hinder innovation and adaptability in organizations. Bureaucratic structures often lead to excessive red tape, slowing decision-making processes and creating inefficiencies. Additionally, the emphasis on rules and procedures can dehumanize employees, reducing their motivation and engagement. Lastly, bureaucracy can result in power imbalances, where authority becomes concentrated and impedes accountability.
The bureaucracy helped Tsar Nicholas II maintain power by effectively implementing state policies and managing the vast Russian Empire's administrative functions. It facilitated communication between the Tsar and local authorities, ensuring loyalty and control over the provinces. Additionally, the bureaucratic system enforced laws and regulations, suppressing dissent and maintaining order, which reinforced the Tsar's authority. However, the inefficiencies and corruption within the bureaucracy ultimately contributed to his downfall, as discontent grew among the populace.
Thailand is often referred to as a "Bureaucratic Polity" due to its complex and entrenched bureaucratic structures that significantly influence governance and policy-making. The bureaucratic system, characterized by a strong civil service and limited political accountability, has historically shaped the political landscape, often overshadowing elected officials. This system allows bureaucrats to maintain considerable power and continuity, even amidst political instability and frequent changes in government. Consequently, decision-making processes are often slow and laden with red tape, highlighting the dominance of bureaucracy in the country's political dynamics.
Bureaucratic workers