Literature Review and Experiential Observations

Abstract

Patnaik explores and reviews literature from five broad academic disciplines: organizational theory, sociology, psychology, economics and political science. The chapter is divided into three parts—first, basic definitions of institutions in various schools of thought and academic disciplines, why and how they perpetuate, and a copious description of various institutional arrangements in an Indian village. The second part examines various power relationships and dynamics in Indian villages, while the third part dwells on institutional theory and institutional change. Identifying power, trust, values, symbols, myths and belief systems among the most significant variables in the rural ecosystem, Patnaik analyses institutional change through the lens of ‘power’ and ‘power asymmetry’ in Indian villages drawing on literature from authors like Di Maggio, Dorado, Battilana, Srinivas and Dube.