"Bureaucrats resist change." Who propounded this theory?

Correct option is D

Robert K. Merton (1957) is credited with highlighting the concept of bureaucratic resistance to change. In his works on bureaucracy, Merton discussed the idea of "bureaucratic inertia," where bureaucrats tend to resist change due to the rigidity of rules, procedures, and routines. Merton's theory suggests that while bureaucracy is designed to be efficient and impersonal, it can often become inflexible, leading to resistance against innovation and reforms.
Information Booster:
1. Robert K. Merton is a renowned sociologist known for his theories on the dysfunctions of bureaucracy.
2. He coined the term "bureaucratic ritualism," which explains the excessive adherence to rules and regulations, leading to inefficiency and resistance to change.
3. Merton's work also addresses the unintended consequences of bureaucratic structures, where the very procedures designed to enhance efficiency can hinder adaptability.
4. Bureaucrats may resist change due to fear of losing control, power, or the security provided by established routines.
5. Max Weber, a foundational theorist on bureaucracy, also emphasized the rational-legal structure of bureaucracy but did not focus as much on resistance to change as Merton did.
6. Anthony Downs and Judith Gruber contributed to the study of bureaucracies but are not specifically associated with the theory of bureaucratic resistance to change.