Democratic Hierarchies in the Workplace: Structural Dilemmas and Organizational Action

Abstract

Case data from an ethnographic study of six experimental firms illustrate characteristic dilemmas and patterns of action in organizational groups espousing participatory democracy. The article explores what the author calls 'democratic hierarchies' through vignettes from each case that highlight a particular dilemma or pattern of behavior. Three problematic aspects of democratic hierarchies discussed include hierarchy and accountability; hierarchy and authority; and hierarchy and ownership. Three recurrent behaviors include holding democratic values and business decisions in tension; participating in multiple forums, including attention to group process; and developing democratic repertoires and rituals.