Final answer:
Karl Marx foresaw a temporary use of the state and bureaucracy in the socialist phase, but ultimately expected the state's functions to become obsolete under full communism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of bureaucracy refers to a system of governance where nonelected officials make important state decisions. This stands in contrast to the elected officials usually favored in a democracy. For Karl Marx, the notion of bureaucracy may seem at odds with his theories, as he sought a classless society without the division of labor that leads to bureaucracy.
Marx foresaw the eventual withering away of the state and thus bureaucracy, as the society transitioned to pure communism; however, he recognized the necessity of a provisional state during the socialist phase. The contradiction lies in the fact that a bureaucratic state can become an end in itself and create a new ruling class, which is contrary to Marxist doctrine.
There are many Marxists who disapprove of the way modern bureaucracies operate. Particularly, they argue that bureaucracies may preserve and solidify power structures that Marx intended to dismantle. A merit-based bureaucracy, while aiming for efficiency and reducing partisanship, could lead to a disconnect from public accountability and responsiveness, which is a concern for both Marxists and non-Marxists. Moreover, the bureaucracy's growth in power and autonomy may cause unease, as it can diminish the influence of the masses, which is antithetical to Marxist ideology.
Modern politicians and citizens attempt to exercise oversight over bureaucracies through various democratic institutions and laws. For instance, the congressional oversight and whistleblowing protections are mechanisms to prevent bureaucracies from becoming too independent or corrupt. It is a fine balance between maintaining efficient administration and ensuring democratic control and accountability.