A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

How do managers partly owe their position, according to Weberian theory?

1. Through seniority and work experience

2. Through their professional qualifications in management

3. Through political connections

4. Through family ties to the upper class

The correct answer is: Through their professional qualifications in management

In Weberian theory, managers are seen as occupying positions that are partly justified by their professional qualifications in management. Max Weber emphasized the importance of bureaucracy and rational-legal authority, where roles within organizations are defined by specific qualifications and expertise. Managers are expected to possess the necessary skills, training, and credentials, which validate their authority and capability to make decisions within the organization. This reliance on professional qualifications aligns with the bureaucratic model, which prioritizes meritocracy based on expertise and professional standards over other factors that might influence one's position, such as familial connections or political ties. In this context, the focus on professional qualifications is critical to understanding the legitimacy of managerial roles in a structured bureaucratic setting.