Public Administration: Power And Politics In The Fourth Branch Of Government

Smith (U. of Nebraska-Lincoln) and Licari (U. of Northern Iowa) present a textbook for undergraduate students taking their first survey course in public administration. The text focuses on power and politics, demonstrating the central political role of the administrative branch of government and how that role influences and shapes the daily lives of all citizens. The text presents administrative agencies as a fourth branch of government--as organizations that are important political and policy actors--and examines the influence of public agencies in public policy decisions; highlights the tension between democracy and bureaucracy; and details the role and legitimacy of public administration in a democracy. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Kevin B. Smith is at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Michael J. Licari is at the University of Northern Iowa.