I've long believed that a core issue in the ongoing dialogue / debate re: hierarchy versus networks should re-orient away from "versus" towards "and". What is problematic in organizations often is 'traditional' position-based hierarchy and all of the learned protocols, practices and psychologies attached thereto. I think hierarchy can be quite useful when chosen and used in a practical and situational manner. I believe networks are causing / will cause an evolution towards enlightened, intelligent, situational and temporary hierarchies, which when combined with increased presence and use of democratic principles as the foundation for an organization's culture, can result in an engaged, disciplined and responsive workforce which is capable of much autonomy and self-management at the work-group level.