What sociological concept, coined by Max Weber, explains the emergence of modern bureaucratic administration?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Rational-legal authority displacing traditional custom
- Step 1: Max Weber identified modern bureaucracy as the supreme manifestation of 'rational-legal authority'. Unlike traditional or charismatic rule, bureaucracy operates on impersonal written rules, specialized division of labor, and formal merit. Answer: Rational-legal authority displacing traditional custom. Why not the others: "Charismatic hereditary kingship" conflates charismatic authority with hereditary tradition, both of which bureaucracy displaces; "Feudal vassalage reciprocity" characterizes medieval pre-modern governance based on personal oaths rather than rational law; "Anarchist voluntary association" advocates for the total abolition of centralized bureaucratic state machinery.
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