Final answer:
Max Weber argued that an ideal bureaucracy involves a hierarchy of authority, extensive rules, task specialization, and the merit principle, but not an incentive system. The merit system has benefits such as efficiency and specialization but may lead to less political responsiveness and the pursuit of personal agendas.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Max Weber's conceptualization, a bureaucracy involves a hierarchical authority structure, extensive rules, task specialization, and the merit principle. What is not considered an element of Weber's ideal bureaucracy is an incentive system. While bureaucracies operate on principles that ensure efficiency and accountability, an incentive system as such is not a defining feature according to Weber's model.
Benefits of the merit system include the creation of an environment favoring ability and knowledge over political connections, leading to a more effective and specialized workforce. Drawbacks, however, include the potential for a less responsive bureaucracy to political change and the chance of bureaucrats pursuing their own agendas.
The characteristics of an ideal bureaucracy according to Weber include being apolitical, hierarchy-based, governed by formal procedures, and staffed by specialized bureaucrats.