Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Comparative Public Administration (CPA), as a subfield of Public Administration, emerged post-World War II, largely influenced by the need to understand and assist developing nations. Initially, it aimed to apply administrative principles across different countries, seeking universal patterns. However, the field began with a significant limitation: it lacked a distinct theoretical framework or paradigm of its own. Instead, it heavily relied on borrowing theories and concepts from disciplines like political science, sociology, and economics, particularly structural-functionalism and modernization theory. This initial dependence on external paradigms shaped its early trajectory and continues to be a point of debate among scholars.
Early Phase: Borrowed Paradigms (1948-1960s)
The initial phase of CPA, often marked by the publication of Fred Riggs’ work, was characterized by a strong reliance on borrowed paradigms. Riggs’ “prismatic-salaam” model (1964), while influential, was rooted in sociological theories of social stratification and modernization. Similarly, the focus on administrative capacity building in developing countries was heavily influenced by Rostow’s stages of economic growth (1960). These were not paradigms *developed* within CPA, but rather applied to it.
- Structural-Functionalism: CPA initially adopted this perspective, viewing administration as a system contributing to societal stability.
- Modernization Theory: The belief that developing countries could achieve progress by adopting Western administrative models was central.
- Ecological Approach: Riggs’ work attempted to link administrative systems to their socio-political environments, but still relied on external theoretical frameworks.
The Critique and the ‘Paradigm Crisis’ (1970s-1980s)
The 1970s witnessed a growing critique of the early CPA approach. Scholars like Waldo (1974) argued that the field was overly ethnocentric and lacked theoretical rigor. The focus on universal principles was challenged by the recognition of the importance of context and the diversity of administrative systems. This led to a ‘paradigm crisis’ as the borrowed paradigms were found inadequate to explain the complexities of administration in different contexts.
The rise of Development Administration: While attempting to address specific challenges, it remained largely focused on implementing externally driven development models rather than formulating its own theoretical base.
Emergence of New Approaches (1990s onwards)
The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw the emergence of new approaches that arguably moved CPA closer to developing its own paradigms, though the debate continues.
- New Public Management (NPM): Inspired by market-oriented reforms in the UK and New Zealand, NPM emphasized efficiency, performance measurement, and customer service. While originating outside CPA, its widespread adoption significantly shaped the field.
- Post-NPM: Recognizing the limitations of NPM, this approach focuses on collaborative governance, citizen engagement, and the importance of trust and legitimacy.
- Good Governance: The concept of good governance, promoted by international organizations like the World Bank and the IMF, became central to CPA, emphasizing accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.
| Paradigm | Origin | Influence on CPA |
|---|---|---|
| Structural-Functionalism | Sociology | Early focus on systems and stability |
| Modernization Theory | Economics/Political Science | Emphasis on Western models for development |
| New Public Management | UK/New Zealand Reforms | Shift towards efficiency and market principles |
| Post-NPM | Critique of NPM | Focus on collaboration and citizen engagement |
However, even these newer approaches can be seen as adaptations and reinterpretations of existing theories rather than entirely novel paradigms originating within CPA.
Conclusion
The statement that Comparative Public Administration started with no paradigm of its own and developed none holds considerable truth. While the field has evolved and incorporated new perspectives like NPM and post-NPM, these were largely borrowed or adapted from other disciplines. CPA’s strength lies in its comparative approach and contextual sensitivity, rather than a singular, overarching theoretical framework. The ongoing search for a uniquely CPA-driven paradigm remains a challenge, suggesting that the field may continue to thrive as a dynamic and interdisciplinary area of study.
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.