The Stories Public Administrators Tell

Abstract

Narrative ethics, which focuses on the meaning inherent in the "story" created between two parties, typically in a doctor-patient relationship, has traditionally been given little attention by the field of public administration. However, this approach has some practical advantages. Focusing on citizen stories can offer mutual benefits, including moving from theory to practice, theory development, and discernment of meaning in ordinary encounters. This article demonstrates how interactions with citizens can be imbued with meaning and render both parties more satisfied.

Keywords:

• narrative ethics
• casuistry