Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Fred Riggs, a prominent scholar of comparative public administration, significantly contributed to understanding administrative systems, particularly in developing countries. In his seminal work, “Administration in Developing Countries: The Theory of Prismatic Bureaucracy” (1964), Riggs identified three discernible ‘trends’ shaping public administration globally. These trends – Aggrandizement, Formalization, and Westernization – represent the forces influencing the evolution of administrative structures and practices. Understanding these trends is crucial for comprehending the complexities of public administration in a comparative context, especially concerning the challenges faced by developing nations in building effective governance systems.
Aggrandizement
Aggrandizement refers to the tendency of administrative organizations to grow in size, scope, and power. This expansion isn’t necessarily linked to increased efficiency or effectiveness but often stems from bureaucratic self-preservation and a desire for greater influence. Riggs argued that this trend is particularly pronounced in developing countries where administrative structures are often used as instruments of political control and patronage. For example, the expansion of the Indian administrative service (IAS) post-independence, while necessary for nation-building, also led to a significant increase in bureaucratic layers and potential for red tape. This growth wasn’t always proportionate to the needs of the population.
Formalization
Formalization describes the increasing emphasis on rules, regulations, and procedures within administrative systems. While formalization aims to ensure consistency, impartiality, and accountability, Riggs cautioned that excessive formalization can lead to rigidity, inflexibility, and a neglect of substantive results. He termed this the ‘goal-displacement’ phenomenon, where adherence to procedures becomes more important than achieving the intended objectives. A classic example is the complex bureaucratic processes involved in obtaining clearances for infrastructure projects in many developing countries, often delaying implementation and increasing costs. The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 in India, while promoting transparency, also necessitates strict adherence to formal procedures for information access.
Westernization
Westernization, according to Riggs, represents the adoption of administrative models and practices from Western, particularly Anglo-American, countries. This trend often occurs through colonial legacies, foreign aid programs, and the influence of international organizations. Riggs argued that simply transplanting Western administrative systems to developing countries without considering their unique socio-political contexts is often ineffective and can even be detrimental. The initial adoption of the parliamentary system in many post-colonial nations, modeled after the British system, faced challenges due to differing social structures and political cultures. The emphasis on meritocratic recruitment, a Western ideal, sometimes clashes with existing social hierarchies and patronage networks in developing countries.
However, Riggs’s model has faced criticism. Some scholars argue that his ‘prismatic bureaucracy’ model is overly deterministic and doesn’t adequately account for the agency of administrative actors in developing countries. Others contend that his categorization of administrative systems is too simplistic and doesn’t capture the diversity of administrative practices across different nations. Despite these criticisms, Riggs’s three trends remain a valuable framework for understanding the forces shaping public administration in a comparative perspective.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Riggs’s identification of Aggrandizement, Formalization, and Westernization as key trends in comparative public administration provides a useful lens for analyzing the evolution of administrative systems globally. While his model isn’t without its limitations, it highlights the complex interplay between administrative structures, political forces, and socio-cultural contexts. Recognizing these trends is essential for policymakers and administrators seeking to build effective and responsive governance systems, particularly in the context of developing nations.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.