Traces trends in theoretical models of organization theory over a 20-year period. Findings indicate that it has been increasingly recognized during this period that organizations are highly interdependent with their environments and that their boundaries are both permeable and variable. Suggested future directions include increased emphasis on…

Demonstrates the relevance of ecology to sociological research and discusses some of the theoretical perspectives embodied in ecology. Examines ecology's emphasis upon the population rather than the individual as the unit of observation and on organizations as products of the interaction of population and environment. (DB)

Considers how the changed ecological conditions confronting human societies challenge sociology. Concludes that sociology stands in need of a fundamental alteration in its disciplinary paradigm. Suggests a 'New Ecological Paradigm' which may better serve the field of sociology in light of the current recognition of ecological realities. (Author/DB)

A framework involving five elements--cause, change agent, change target, channel, and change strategy--provides a useful framework for social action analysis. (Author)