`Tom Burns' book was a minor classic when it was first published; one of the most sensible and profound critiques of bureaucracy in print. It was way ahead of its time, perhaps "prematurely right". I congratulate Oxford University Press for this re-issue, the third edition, with a new and extraordinary Preface to a book that is now a major classic.' Warren Bennis, University of Southern California, Author of An Invented Life: Reflections on Leadership and Change, Addison Wesley, `93
`one of the most influential books of organisation theory and industrial sociology ever written' ESRC News
`A fine classic.' Richard C. Warren, Manchester Metropolitan University
`Excellent for higher undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Business and Management.' David Nicoll, University of Central Lancashire
`a `classic'' Professor A.W.M. Teulings, The Netherlands
`Written in refreshingly plain English, it is a riveting read and brims with insight after insight.' Financial Times
This new edition of a celebrated work first published in 1961 is very welcome ... Grab the chance to replace tattered library copies of this classic. If you have never read it, read it now - preferably, in its entirety, but at least chapters one, four, five and six together with the new Preface. * Work, Employment & Society Vol 9, No 2 *
A new edition of Burns and Stalker's scholarly text on organisation theory and industrial sociology is indeed welcome and should provide stimulating reflection for those who work in dynamic industries and professions ... For over thirty years, this book has taken a leading role in encouraging creative behaviour in industry and commerce; its message remains relevant in today's harsh economic environment ... Those who offer professional services - including market and social research - will find that this pioneering text inspires them to reflect imaginatively on their present activities as practitioners and managers. * Journa of the Market Research Society *
