The Org

Bureaucracies’ shortcomings are well-known, and everybody who ever hung out at a water cooler has a story about corporate stupidity. So why do people keep grouping together in large structures? To find out why and when organizations work, professor of social enterprise Ray Fisman and economics editor Tim Sullivan examine organizations, including police departments, churches and online companies. They integrate their sometimes meandering observations with history, economic theory and more than a trace of wit. Those who want to know how businesses function will find this look at human psychology and organizational culture intriguing and engaging.