Pyramid structures have a limited number of positions at the top. There s only so much power, prestige, and status to go around. There are never enough resources to do the job. Gratification and recognition are in short supply. We assume that one must climb to the top for the big payoffs.
Performance evaluations focus on individuals.
There s little regard for the social context in which human behavior occurs. Motivation is based on an individual, differential reward system. We assume we have to look out for Number One. Individuals compete for personal power and scarce resources. In this zero-sum game, everyone gains power at someone s expense.