What type of organization requires members to give unquestioned obedience?

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Prepare for the UCF SYG2000 Introduction to Sociology Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your understanding and increase your chances of success!

The correct answer indicates that coercive organizations are characterized by their requirement for members to provide unquestioned obedience. This type of organization typically involves forced participation or conditions that limit personal freedom, ensuring that members adhere strictly to the rules and directives laid out by the authority. Examples include prisons or military institutions, where compliance is often mandated through strict regulations and, in some cases, punishment.

Coercive organizations rely on the power of authority and control, viewing obedience as essential to maintain order and hierarchy. This approach contrasts sharply with utilitarian organizations, which are based on achieving specific goals or benefits, normative organizations, which focus on shared goals and values, and professional organizations, which emphasize specialized knowledge and accreditation. Each of these other types relies on different motivational factors—such as rewards, shared interests, or professional standards—rather than the demand for absolute obedience found in coercive organizations.