He gives many case studies of activities and crises to illustrate his analysis. Moral Mazes can be heavy-going at times, as some of the quotes below indicate. But it is worth persisting with the book because of the insights it offers. Unfortunately, Jackall just describes corporate life and doesn't give any suggestions on how to change it. Here are some of his important insights.
Corporations are in a constant state of upheaval.
Bureaucracy is a set of networks of patronage. Corporations often respond to the whims and inclinations of the chief executive. Even an off-hand comment by the chief executive can trigger subordinates into intense activity to do what they think is being suggested. In many cases the result is ill-advised or disastrous. Conformity is enforced to amazingly fine details.