What principle suggests that if everyone in an organization could act freely, the likelihood of achieving goals would diminish?

The principle that states if everyone in an organization could act freely, the likelihood of achieving goals would diminish is rooted in the concept of hierarchy of authority. In a structured organization, hierarchy establishes a clear chain of command, delineating roles and responsibilities at various levels. This structure facilitates coordination and accountability, ensuring that actions align with the organization's objectives. When authority is centralized and clearly defined, it enables efficient decision-making and minimizes confusion about who is responsible for specific tasks.

Without this hierarchical structure, individual actions may become disjointed and self-directed, leading to conflicting priorities and a lack of coherence in pursuing the organization's goals. Therefore, a robust hierarchy is crucial for maintaining order and directing efforts towards the desired outcomes. Other principles mentioned, such as command responsibility and unity of command, also relate to authority but emphasize different aspects of organizational effectiveness and accountability.