What did Norton Long emphasize about the nature of power within bureaucracy?

Norton Long emphasized that power is essential for the functioning and effectiveness of bureaucracy. By stating that power is the "lifeblood of administration," he acknowledged that the distribution and exercise of power are central to how bureaucratic organizations operate. In bureaucracies, power is not just a byproduct but a crucial element that enables decision-making, establishes authority, and facilitates the implementation of policies and procedures.

Long argued that without power, bureaucratic structures would struggle to enforce rules or carry out functions critical to governance and administration. The effectiveness of a bureaucratic organization often hinges on clear hierarchies of authority and accountability, which necessitate a concentration of power at various levels.

This perspective highlights the intricate relationship between power and administration, underscoring the reality that organizational effectiveness is tied to how power is wielded and managed within bureaucratic systems.