ABSTRACT
Although Max Weber wrote a great deal about many aspects of evolving industrial societies, and this included his work on the city (Weber, 1958), he is most noted in the sphere of urban studies for his contributions to the study of bureaucracies. Indeed, the term 'Weberian' is often used as a general synonym to denote anyone who refers to the importance of bureaucracies in cities. In effect, as will be described in this chapter, the majority of studies of urban services pay little detailed attention to Weberian concepts or, indeed, the subsequent vast literature within sociology and organisations theory. Consequently, although the majority of the following studies relate to issues raised by Weber, their inclusion in this chapter does not signify any strict adherence to his approach or methodology. Nevertheless, Weber, both directly and indirectly, has exerted a dominating influence upon subsequent writings and since his approach contrasts with the other major influence - Karl Marx - his approach needs elaboration.
