Question 1

1. Within the bounds of privacy and decency, list all the ways in which you are dependent upon public administrators on a day to day basis. How do these relationships of dependence fit into the discussion of public administration and the public presented in the book? How would further development of e-government impact this dependence? Would it increase, decrease, or not impact efficiency? Why?

Accepted Answer

On a day to day basis, I am dependent upon public administrators in a variety of ways. These include but are not limited to, the maintenance of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and public transportation systems, the provision of public safety through law enforcement and emergency services, the regulation of public health and safety standards, and the administration of public assistance programs.

These relationships of dependence fit into the discussion of public administration and the public presented in the book by highlighting the interconnectedness between the government and its citizens. Public administrators are responsible for providing essential services and maintaining the common good, and as a member of the public, I rely on these services for my daily life.

The further development of e-government could impact this dependence in several ways. It has the potential to increase efficiency by streamlining processes and making information more accessible to the public. For example, online portals for accessing government services and information can make it easier for citizens to interact with public administrators. However, it could also increase dependence on technology and potentially create barriers for those who do not have access to or are not comfortable using digital platforms.

Overall, the impact of e-government on dependence upon public administrators could vary depending on how it is implemented. If done effectively, it has the potential to increase efficiency by making services more accessible and streamlined. However, it is important to consider potential challenges and barriers that could impact certain groups of citizens.

Question 2

In your view, how serious is the tension between democratic constitutionalism and public administration? Why? If you consider the tension to be a problem, how could it be alleviated? If you do not think there is a tension between democratic constitutionalism and public administration, discuss the governmental processes and values that you believe make the two compatible. If you believe that there is a tension between the two, but that it is not problematic, explain how the tension contributes to the desirable functioning of government.

Accepted Answer

In my view, the tension between democratic constitutionalism and public administration is a serious issue. This tension arises from the need to balance the principles of democratic governance, such as accountability, transparency, and citizen participation, with the efficient and effective management of public resources and implementation of government policies by public administrators.

The tension is problematic because it can lead to conflicts between the principles of democratic constitutionalism and the practical realities of public administration. For example, the need for public administrators to make quick and decisive decisions may conflict with the principles of transparency and citizen participation. Additionally, the hierarchical nature of public administration can sometimes undermine the principles of equality and accountability inherent in democratic constitutionalism.

To alleviate this tension, it is important to promote a culture of collaboration and communication between democratic institutions and public administrators. This can be achieved through training and education for public administrators on democratic principles and values, as well as fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within public administration. Additionally, involving citizens in decision-making processes and providing avenues for feedback and oversight can help bridge the gap between democratic constitutionalism and public administration.

I believe that there is a tension between democratic constitutionalism and public administration, but that it is not necessarily problematic. This tension can contribute to the desirable functioning of government by ensuring a checks-and-balances system where the principles of democratic governance are upheld while also allowing for efficient and effective public administration. This tension can lead to healthy debates and discussions that ultimately lead to better policies and practices within government.

In conclusion, while the tension between democratic constitutionalism and public administration is a serious issue, it is not insurmountable. By promoting collaboration, communication, and a culture of accountability, this tension can be alleviated, leading to a more harmonious and effective government system.

Question 3

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of greater citizen participation in public administration. Consider each of the possible means of participation discussed in the chapter.

Accepted Answer

There are several advantages and disadvantages to greater citizen participation in public administration, and each means of participation comes with its own set of pros and cons.

One advantage of greater citizen participation is that it can lead to more informed and inclusive decision-making. When citizens are involved in the public administration process, they can bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, leading to more well-rounded and effective policies and programs. Additionally, involving citizens in decision-making can increase their trust and satisfaction with the government, as they feel their voices are being heard and considered.

Another advantage is that greater citizen participation can lead to increased transparency and accountability in public administration. When citizens are involved in the process, they can hold public officials and administrators accountable for their actions and decisions, leading to a more ethical and responsible government.

On the other hand, there are also disadvantages to greater citizen participation. One potential downside is that it can lead to slower decision-making and implementation of policies. Involving citizens in every step of the public administration process can be time-consuming and may lead to delays in addressing urgent issues. Additionally, citizen participation can also be influenced by special interest groups, leading to biased decision-making and favoritism.

In terms of the means of participation discussed in the chapter, each comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For example, public hearings and consultations can provide valuable input from citizens, but they may not always be representative of the broader population. Similarly, citizen advisory boards and committees can bring expertise to the table, but they may also be influenced by special interests.

In conclusion, while greater citizen participation in public administration can lead to more informed and inclusive decision-making, as well as increased transparency and accountability, it also comes with potential downsides such as slower decision-making and biased influence. It is important for public administrators to carefully consider the means of participation and strike a balance between citizen involvement and efficient governance.

Question 4

The NPM favors the contracting out of government goods and services. What potential problems may arise out of the increased use of contracting? How could these problems be addressed? Explain.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The NPM favors the contracting out of...

Question 5

The NPM views the public primarily as "customers" of government services. Do you think it is appropriate to label citizens "customers"? Why or why not? What are some advantages and disadvantages of the customer service approach?

Accepted Answer

The answer of The NPM views the public primarily as...

Question 6

The joint provision of public services by public administrators and service consumers is

Accepted Answer

Coproduction refers to the process where both public service providers and consumers (or citizens) are involved in the provision of public services. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of public services.

Question 7

Which of the following best fits the definition of a "public interest group"?

Accepted Answer

The League of Women Voters fits the definition of a "public interest group" because it is an organization that works to promote the public interest by encouraging active and informed participation in government, working to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influencing public policy through education and advocacy.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the relationship between citizen and public administrator upon which traditional democratic constitutionalism is predicated?

Accepted Answer

Traditional democratic constitutionalism is predicated on the relationship between the citizen and the public administrator as one of sovereign and servant, where the citizen is considered the sovereign, and the public administrator acts as the servant to the citizens' needs and directives within the framework of the law.

Question 9

Which of the following is the best example of a client-centered facility?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following is the best...

Question 10

According to the chapter, which of the following is most likely to socialize most individuals to administrative culture?

Accepted Answer

Public schools are institutions where individuals are systematically exposed to societal norms, values, and administrative structures, thus socializing them into the administrative culture.

Question 11

"Anomie" is a sense of

Accepted Answer

"Anomie" refers to a state or condition where individuals feel disconnected from society due to a breakdown or absence of social norms, leading to personal isolation and a sense of lack of control over their environment.

Question 12

According to the chapter, which of the following is least characteristic of democracy?

Accepted Answer

Democracy emphasizes equality, pluralism, and rotation in office as its core characteristics. Civic participation based on expertise is less characteristic of democracy, as democracy typically values broad participation regardless of expertise level.

Question 13

Of the following, who is most closely associated with the idea that citizens are subjects of the administrative state?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Of the following, who is most closely...

Question 14

In which sphere of human activity is public administration least likely to intervene in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Public administration in the United States is least likely to intervene in religion due to the strong emphasis on the separation of church and state, as outlined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Question 15

Which approach to public administration tends to shift the burden of cost and time to individual members of the public?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which approach to public administration tends to...

Question 16

According to the chapter, democracy requires

Accepted Answer

Democracy is fundamentally based on the principle of equality, where all individuals have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Question 17

According to the chapter, most people in the United States believe

Accepted Answer

Surveys and public opinion research consistently show that a significant portion of the U.S. population holds these views about government, indicating a broad skepticism towards government efficiency, trustworthiness, and fairness.

Question 18

According to Charles Goodsell, most citizens perceive their interactions with public bureaucracies as

Accepted Answer

Charles Goodsell argues that most citizens perceive their interactions with public bureaucracies as efficient, contrary to common stereotypes of inefficiency.

Question 19

According to the chapter, which of the following most accurately describes the public's view of public administration?

Accepted Answer

The answer of According to the chapter, which of the...

Question 20

Congressional casework is most closely related to

Accepted Answer

Congressional casework is most closely related to ombudsmanship, as it involves assisting constituents with navigating government bureaucracy and addressing their concerns, similar to the role of an ombudsman.

Quiz 10: Public Administration and the Public