This controversial book strongly criticizes recent developments in the
study of organizational structure in the United States. It concentrates
on five theories that are fashionable: population-ecology,
institutional, resource dependence, agency and transaction costs
economics. Each is shown to be flawed, either in its logic, or by
studies of actual organizations. These sharply different theories have
fragmented the field and present a negative view of managers. Lex
Donaldson argues for an integrated theory built around structural
contingency theory, that places managers in a more positive light.