A Taxonomy of Selected Organizational Theories

Grace S. Thomson, Nevada State College

Abstract

Abstract This research proposes a taxonomy of 16 organizational theories that represent both germinal and current approaches. The author has used methodologies used by Miner (2005; 2006) and Vibert (2004) for purposes of classification of theories in macro level and micro level categories. Macro level theories are aimed at describing the design, behavior and paradigms of the organizations, whereas Micro level theories are focused on the description of individual behaviors and interactions within the organization. This taxonomy has identified nine theories that represent Eurocentric and traditional thought; three theories that represent global approaches and four theories considered non-traditional, identifying their creators and developers and the year of publication.

Selected theories are organized in three tables, clearly identifying theories of organizational behavior, design and paradigms. Each table lists theories in no particular order.