Witches and Witchfrnding in Educational Organizations

Abstract

Modem organizations, particularly loosely coupled education organizations, may exhibit behaviors structurally similar to those of "simple societies. " This article suggests that behaviors akin to witchfinding in preliterate societies may be used in education organizations to maintain social order and the status quo-to defeat change attempts and defeat change agents. The anthropological literature is reviewed and a generalized model produced. Case data in higher education are provided and analyzed using the witchfinding model. Possibilities for restructuring the organization in education are suggested.