ALBERT

Notes: This paper considers the nature of organizational conflict in general and conflict in the co-operative society in particular.It examines the unitary and pluralistic views of organizations and considers the suggestions that conflict is necessary for the independence of the individual, is constructive for the organization and is inevitable in any form of society. It investigates the proposed mechanisms for restraining conflict so that it is constructive.It is then argued that the co-operative retail society is a pluralistic organization comprising a number of different interest groups with their own sets of values. These groups tend to be engaged in an evaluation of the other groups and this evaluation carries with it the framework for competition rather than co-operation.It is contended that when economic conditions are favourable and there is a substantial surplus in the society the different groups can be satisfied and the inherent conflict remains submerged. The evaluation process is, in these conditions, latent, and internal competition is likely to be minimal. When economic conditions are unfavourable it is suggested that the divergent interests come to the surface. There is less dividend available for the members, the demands of managers and staff for higher wages and salaries may be difficult to meet, the members may be concerned about their capital and wish to draw it at a time when management want to retain it in the society. Within management the competition for scarce resources becomes sharper, and between management and staff there is increased tension as the former increase the pressure for greater efficiency. Economic values predominate and the holders of social values feel their position within the society to be threatened. To reassert themselves, they may stress the need for more effective democratic control. This emphasis on democratic control is a part of a wider feeling of anti-professionalism. This may take a number of forms, all, of which are aimed to redress the balance between managers and laymen. The attempt to establish firmer democratic control and the broader issue of anti-professionalism are both likely to intensify the conflict situation in a retail society at a time of economic stress.