Title
The Machinery of Government: Public Administration and the Liberal State,Used
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In political theory, the traditional model of state power was that elected officials make policy decisions which are then faithfully executed by a lower cadre of public servants. The complexity of the modern state, however, leaves this model outdated. The vast number of economic and social problems it confronts is such that a great deal of rulemaking power is now delegated to a class of civil servants. Yet many political philosophers have not taken this model up, and the field has ignored the important role played by the class of 'permanent' state officialsthe 'deep state' as some call itin liberal states.In most liberal democracies for example, the central bank is as independent as the supreme court, yet deals with a wide range of economic, social, and political issues. How do these public servants make these policy decisions? What normative principles inform their judgments? In The Machinery of Government, Joseph Heath attempts to answer these questions. He looks to the actual practice of public administration to see how normative questions are addressed. More broadly, he attempts to provide the outlines of a 'philosophy of the executive' by taking seriously the claim to political authority of the most neglected of the three branches of the state. Heath both provides a corrective to the prevailing tendency to underestimate the contribution of civil servants to the success of liberaldemocratic welfare states, and suggests a more satisfactory account of the principles implicit in public administration.
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- Q: What is the page count of 'The Machinery of Government'? A: This book contains four hundred forty pages. It provides an in-depth analysis of public administration and the liberal state.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'The Machinery of Government'? A: The book measures nine point three inches in length, one point four two inches in width, and six point four two inches in height.
- Q: What type of binding does 'The Machinery of Government' have? A: This book is bound in hardcover. Hardcover bindings are known for their durability and long-lasting quality.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Machinery of Government'? A: The author is Joseph Heath. He explores the role of civil servants in public administration.
- Q: What is the genre of 'The Machinery of Government'? A: This book falls under the genre of Ethics & Morality. It discusses political theory and the function of government.
- Q: Is 'The Machinery of Government' suitable for beginners in political theory? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. It provides accessible insights into public administration and liberal states.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'The Machinery of Government'? A: The book explores themes of state power, public administration, and the role of civil servants in governance.
- Q: What age group is 'The Machinery of Government' suitable for? A: This book is suitable for adults and mature readers. It delves into complex political and ethical discussions.
- Q: How should I care for 'The Machinery of Government'? A: To keep the book in good condition, store it upright on a shelf and avoid direct sunlight. Handle it with clean hands to prevent dirt.
- Q: Is there a warranty for 'The Machinery of Government'? A: Books typically do not come with a warranty. However, check with the retailer for return policies.
- Q: What should I do if 'The Machinery of Government' arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most retailers have policies for damaged goods.
- Q: Can I read 'The Machinery of Government' alongside other political theory texts? A: Yes, it complements other political theory texts well. Readers can gain a broader understanding of governance.
- Q: How does 'The Machinery of Government' compare to other books in political theory? A: This book offers a unique perspective by focusing on civil servants, unlike many texts that emphasize elected officials.
- Q: Is 'The Machinery of Government' appropriate for academic study? A: Yes, it is appropriate for academic study. The book presents well-researched insights into public administration.
- Q: Are there any common issues with 'The Machinery of Government'? A: Common issues include potential misunderstandings of complex theories. Readers are encouraged to take notes for better comprehension.
- Q: What is the main focus of 'The Machinery of Government'? A: The main focus is on the role of civil servants in the modern state. It critiques traditional models of governance.