One of Max Weber's most important contributions to sociology has been his examination of bureaucracies. To learn more, log onto The Dead Sociologists' Society, a website by Larry R. Ridener (http://www2.pfeiffer.edu/~lridener/DSS/DEADSOC.HTML). (This site is case sensitive.) Click on the picture of Weber and read "The Person," "A Summary of Ideas," and "The Original Work."

1. What connections can be drawn between Max Weber's life story and his theory? How did childhood, education, work, and personal relationships shape his sociological ideas and research?
2. What fact did you learn about Weber's life that interested you the most? Why?
3. What connections can be drawn between Weber's "Types of Authority" and his thinking on bureaucracies? Give your own example of a leader from politics, history, or religion for each of Weber's types of authority.
4. Do Weber's "Characteristics of a Bureaucracy" (described in Table 6-2 in the book as well as on the website) apply to your place of current or past employment? Why would the place where you work be considered a bureaucracy? Or why would it not be considered as such?
5. Do the ideas from the chapter regarding primary and secondary groups, in- and out-groups, and reference groups also apply to where you work? How so?

The opening excerpt for this chapter covers the concept of McDonaldization, introduced by sociologist George Ritzer. In a recent commentary, Ritzer discussed the McDonaldization of society, and introduced another concept - "vertical McDonaldization." Read his commentary on the following site: (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/news/editorial/5361977.htm). Answer the questions below:

1. Briefly explain why the concept of "McDonaldization" applies to education.
2. What does Ritzer mean by the term "vertical McDonalization?"
3. Briefly explain how "vertical McDonaldization" has affected industries other than the food industry.
4. In what way does the concept of "McDonalization" apply to Internet universities?