Write two short paragraphs that (1) describe the principles of the federal bureaucracy and (2) provide a more in-depth description of the structure and unique characteristics of one of the major parts of the federal bureaucracy. This can be the cabinet, the Executive Office of the President, government corporations, or independent regulatory commissions.

The bureaucracy is a large group of people whose role is to ensure that laws are executed; it creates rules to enable this; and in adjudication. It is based on three principles: hierarchical authority, job specialization, and formalized rules.

Hierarchical Authority is a chain of command whereby the officials and units at the top of a bureaucracy have authority over those in the middle, who in turn control those at the bottom. Hierarchy speeds action by reducing conflict over the power to make decisions: those higher in the organization have authority over those below them.

Job specialization refers to explicitly defined duties for each job position and to precise division of labor within the organization. Specialization yields efficiency because each individual concentrates on a particular job and becomes proficient at the tasks in involves.

Formalized rules re the established precedures and regulations by which a bureaucracy conducts its operations. Formalized rules enable workers to make quick and consistent judgements because decisions are based on preset rules rather than on a case-by-case basis.