Organizations, Institutions, and the Story of Shmuel: Reflections On the 40th Anniversary of the Law and Society Association

Summary

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A speech delivered by Howard S. Erlanger at the Law and Society Association Annual Meeting, May 29, 2004, in Chicago is presented. Erlanger talks about Organizations, Institutions, and the Story of Shmuel.

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Organizations, Institutions, and the Story of Shmuel: Reflections On the 40th Anniversary of the Law and Society Association

Today I would like to speak to you about Organizations, Institutions, and the Story of Shmuel.

Now, I figure everyone here knows what an organization is, and pretty much everyone at least thinks they know what an institution is. But I'm pretty sure you all are wondering, "Who's Shmuel?"

Shmuel was a Jewish fellow who was shipwrecked on a desert island. After he had lived many years by himself on the island, a rescue party located him. Before leaving the island, Shmuel offered to give his rescuers a tour. "You won't believe the good life I have had here," he told them.

"This is the general store," he said, pointing out an area where fruits and nuts were attractively displayed on tables. "Each morning I come here and select the finest fresh produce for my breakfast."

"This is the fitness center," he said, pointing to a workout area, where vines were strung up to create a ropes course and where ther...

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