Question 1

The Obama administration's health care reform is a goal rather that an objective.

Accepted Answer

A goal is a broad statement of intent, while an objective is a specific and measurable target. The Obama administration's health care reform is a goal because it aims to improve the overall health care system, but it does not have specific measurable targets.

Question 2

Ethical considerations play an increasingly insignificant role in public-sector decision making.

Accepted Answer

Ethical considerations are an integral part of public-sector decision making and have become increasingly important in recent years due to heightened public demand for transparency, accountability, and fairness. Public officials are expected to act in the best interest of the public and adhere to ethical principles and values, such as honesty, integrity, and respect for the rule of law. Failure to consider ethical implications can lead to negative consequences, including public distrust, legal challenges, and reputational damage. Therefore, ethical considerations remain significant in public-sector decision making.

Question 3

To "satisfice" as fully as possible is one major concern of the rational decision maker.

Accepted Answer

Rational decision makers aim to maximize their outcomes rather than "satisfice." Satisficing involves choosing an option that meets a minimum level of satisfaction, rather than finding the optimal solution.

Question 4

Goal congruence isn't necessary for an organization to become efficient.

Accepted Answer

Goal congruence refers to the alignment of individual goals with organizational goals. When employees are working towards the same goals as the organization, there is more cooperation and coordination leading to increased efficiency. Without goal congruence, there may be competing priorities and conflicting actions that can impede efficiency.

Question 5

Incrementalism has been criticized on two grounds: first, that it fails to take into account fundamental needs and problems in decision-making systems; and second, that it encourages those who resist change in organizations.

Accepted Answer

Incrementalism has been criticized for not addressing fundamental problems and needs in decision-making systems, and for potentially enabling resistance to change within organizations.

Question 6

Efforts have been made by government employees and their associations to set ethical standards and enforce ethical behavior.

Accepted Answer

Yes, government employees and their associations have made efforts to establish ethical standards and promote ethical behavior in the workplace. This includes the establishment of codes of conduct, training programs, and the enforcement of disciplinary actions for misconduct.

Question 7

Some alternative decisions are effectively denied to decision makers because of past choices and policies put into effect by previous decision makers.

Accepted Answer

Past choices and policies can set constraints or paths that are difficult to deviate from, limiting the available options for future decision makers.

Question 8

One of the most important factors in decision making is human judgment.

Accepted Answer

Human judgment plays a crucial role in decision making as it involves the process of evaluating available options and selecting the one that is most suitable based on personal values, preferences, and experience. Although various tools and techniques can aid in decision making, ultimately it is the human judgment that makes the final call.

Quiz 5: Decision Making in Administration