SOCA01H3 Chapter 5: Sociology Chapter 5.doc
5 Mar 2012
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Non-sociological reason: nazis were evil, sadistic, or deluded enough to think jews and other undesirables threatened existence of germans, therefore in their mind the innocents had to be killed. Sociologist emphasizes 2 other factors: structures of authority tend to render people obedient. Experiment shows that structure of authority is introduced, we are inclined to obey those in power. Even if authority structure is new and highly artificial, if we are free to walk away from in without penalty, if we think that remaining in it is causing pain to others. Actions and inactions of german citizens become more understandable if no more forgivable: bureaucracies are highly effective structures of authority. Bureaucracy: large, impersonal organization composed of many clearly defined positions arranged in hierarchy. Has permanent, salaried staff or qualified experts and written goals, rules, and procedures. Staffs always try to find ways of running organization more efficiently. Jobs were broken down to many for nazis to be more efficient.
