The new comparative administration: A proposal

Abstract

This position paper proposes that pessimistic self-criticism in the field of comparative public administration be replaced by recognition of its already notable accomplishments; and, more importantly, by its clearly great promise when the field is not narrowly conceived as merely non-American public administration but a generic, master field of administrative study. Hence the “new comparative administration” incorporates subnational and supranational comparisons as well as those in which the independent variable of national or national system is used. Also the redefined field will embrace: organizational, programmatic, and other such comparisons; use of disparate comparative methodologies ; and research aimed frankly at ameliorating practical problems. This redefinition is intended not to down-grade the study of public administration in foreign countries, but merely to place that work in a broader disciplinary context in which revitalization can proceed.