Political Setting of Administration

A set of flashcards covering key concepts in the political setting of administration, focusing on various definitions, models, and dynamics involved.

Politics

The authoritative allocation of values or resources; often involves decision making, resource distribution, power and authority.

Public Administration

The management of public programs and the production of goods and services designed to serve the needs of citizens.

Politics-Administration Dichotomy

A theoretical model that emphasizes distinct features of public administration versus politics, aiming to delineate their respective roles.

Orthodox Model

Advocates a strict separation between politics and public administration, promoting political neutrality and specialized functions.

Modified Model

Allows administrators to participate in policy processes while maintaining their non-political position, emphasizing leadership roles.

Partnership Model

Both administrators and politicians are involved in policy making and implementation, recognizing the complexity of governance.

Complementarity Model

Stresses interdependency and the need for distinct roles between elected officials and public administrators, working collaboratively towards governance.

Power

The capacity or ability to influence the behavior of others and undertake tasks or activities.

Authority

Legitimate power; the right or capacity to command obedience and have proposals accepted without coercion.

Traditional Authority

Derived from customs and practices, often linked to bloodlines and historical precedents.

Charismatic Authority

Power derived from an individual's personal charm and influence; often short-lived without institutional support.

Legal-Rational Authority

Authority based on established rules, regulations, and procedures, emphasizing roles over individual personalities.

Sources of Power

Includes organizational bases like legitimate, coercive, and reward power, as well as personal bases like referent and expert power.

Democratic Control

The process by which elected representatives (Legislature) hold administrators accountable, ensuring public servant responsibility.

Judicial Review

The process by which courts examine the legality of administrative actions, ensuring compliance with the Constitution.

Organizational Politics

The pursuit of self-interest within organizations, often involving tactics to gain influence and achieve goals.

Environmental Scanning

The process of monitoring external changes to inform organizational strategy and decision-making.

Public Sector

The part of the economy concerned with providing various government services, often shaped by political and administrative processes.