BOOK REVIEWS 469 ship to research. Criteria for evaluating the merit of theory also are enumerated in the first chapter. These are then -used, more implicitly than explicitly, to guide discussion at the end of each chapter and in the final chapter. The last chapter presents a global assessment of the theories examined in the book.Each chapter is self-contained with only infrequent references to other chapters. Consequently, an instructor using the book might select his or her own reading order without sacrificing coherence. Furthermore, each chapter is written in a tightly systematic, clear style. When recounting the sometimes confusing plethora of facts and arguments surrounding certain theories, such as Fiedler's contingency theory of leadership, Miner's clarity of writing is appreciated.Some features of the book, however, are perplexing. For example, the discussions of motivation and job enrichment according to Herzberg's motivator-hygiene theory and Hackman's job characteristics theory are separated by four chapters. The potential for comparative analysis of these theories is hindered by this separation. Also, while a Theory X-Theory Y chapter permits a transition from coverage of theories of individual behavior to theories of leadership behavior, it deals largely with philosophical approaches to management and would seem to rest more comfortably in a "macro" text. Finally, the literature review for the chapter on Herzberg's theory seems selective. There are data and logical criticisms concerning the adequacy of Herzberg's conception of satisfaction and dissatisfaction as not being opposites that could have appeared in the chapter. In general, though, Miner utilizes the major writings in the literature in his discussions of the various theories.The book shows Miner's perspective on the field of organizational behavior to be influenced strongly by empiricist, positivist principles. So strong is his predilection for empirical research results that the content of the book was determined by such: "the selection of theories for inclusion in this book was preceded by a search for nominations by recognized scholars in the field of organizational sLudy" and nominations of high consensus were adopted. To carry out such a survey indicates good market research, a good example of living by one's beliefs, or both. Miner also devotes considerable attention to rigor in the measurement and definition of theoretical constructs. Discussion of these matters appears throughout the book, especially in the final chapter. I believe too much emphasis is placed on the issue of defining constructs precisely and unequivocally, ignoring the point that constructs can be quite useful even when there is ambiguity in their definition, such as the concepts of power or socialization.Overall, the book accomplishes its major goal: the exposition and analysis of certain organizational behavior theories beyond the introductory level. It does this while inducing the reader to think about many issues related to theorizing. In this way the book seem...
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