Post-Traditional Public Administration Theory: For Better Governmental Praxis

This book offers a critical perspective on public administration theory and practice, advocating for a more holistic and effective approach to governance. It draws on David Farmer's extensive academic work and emphasizes the importance of understanding context, identities, imagination, epistemic pluralism, anti-administration, and the context of economics in achieving high effectiveness in public administration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 410 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the exploration of a highly influential approach to public administration, emphasizing its potential to enhance government governance. Its primary objective is to inspire governments to strive for improved policy and administration practices. To achieve exceptional effectiveness, a deep understanding of context and identities, the ability to imagine alternatives, epistemic pluralism, a critical stance against traditional administration, and an appreciation of the economic context are considered crucial elements. The diverse collection of chapters included in this book has been carefully selected from the extensive body of work authored by David Farmer over the past thirty years. These chapters were originally published in esteemed journals such as the Journal of Administrative Theory and Praxis and the Journal of Public Administration Education. Collectively, these chapters aim to provide valuable guidance for governments in utilizing post-traditional public administration theory to achieve enhanced public administration practices.

Understanding context and identities is vital for effective public administration. It involves recognizing the unique characteristics and perspectives of different groups and individuals within a society. By understanding these differences, governments can develop policies and programs that are more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

Imaginization is another critical aspect of effective public administration. It involves the ability to think creatively and explore alternative solutions to complex problems. By imagining different scenarios and outcomes, governments can identify innovative approaches that may not have been considered before.

Epistemic pluralism is a philosophical belief that there is no single, universal truth. Instead, there are multiple perspectives and interpretations of reality. This perspective is important in public administration because it encourages governments to consider a range of evidence and opinions when making decisions.

Anti-administration is a critical stance against traditional bureaucratic approaches to public administration. It emphasizes the importance of decentralization, collaboration, and citizen participation in decision-making processes. By empowering citizens and reducing the power of centralized authorities, governments can create more efficient and effective public services.

The context of economics is also essential for effective public administration. Governments must understand the economic forces that shape their societies and the policies that can promote economic growth and stability. By integrating economic considerations into public administration decisions, governments can create policies that are more equitable and sustainable.

The pieces included in this book have been handpicked from the vast academic collection that David Farmer has authored over the last thirty years and which were published in the Journal of Administrative Theory and Praxis and the Journal of Public Administration Education. Collectively, these chapters are intended to help governments use post-traditional public administration theory in order to achieve better praxis.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of a highly influential approach to public administration. By emphasizing the importance of context and identities, imaginization, epistemic pluralism, anti-administration, and the context of economics, it provides valuable guidance for governments in striving for improved policy and administration practices. The diverse collection of chapters included in this book showcases the rich body of work authored by David Farmer and highlights the potential of post-traditional public administration theory to enhance government governance.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367683061