Public Administration ETDs

Publication Date

4-30-1974

Abstract

This study addresses the requirement for balance between the conflicting forces of order and disorder in organizations. A theoretical formulation approach is used to generate a dynamic equilibrium model. A system of interrelated explanatory structures is used to explain organization behavior. Exposition of the basic dynamic equilibrium unit (BaDE) is with a hypothetical medical R&D military organization. Typologies of organization and organization theory are critiqued. Comparative organization analysis is used to generate organization system interrelationships of attributes. Based on the assumption of reversible and random processes and structures, thermodynamics is used to validate the concept of dynamic equilibrium in organizations, and to invalidate the concept of negentropy. The precursors to the dynamic equilibrium construct are critiqued. Both the theoretical thermodynamic and qualitative organizational analytical models, as well as the exposition of the R&D agency, demonstrate the necessity for balancing the conflicting requirements of equilibrium and entropy in the explanation of organization of organizational behavior.

Degree Name

Public Administration

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

School of Public Administration

First Committee Member (Chair)

Albert H. Rosenthal

Second Committee Member

Donald Winston Smithburg

Third Committee Member

Gerald Joseph Boyle

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

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