Public Administration ETDs

Publication Date

5-12-1975

Abstract

This thesis attempts to clarify a relevant conceptual definition of the contemporary science-in-society interface, and to better understand some effects a system involving direct public input into government issues might have on the further development of American democratic society. The focus is from the standpoint of greater use of communications technology in the public sector in a way that would involve more equitable and ethical participation of interested, informed citizens in pertinent issues. The study is continually set in a science and technological framework.

The thesis begins by discussing the fact that American and world societies have reached a practical technological capability for one world society, and suggests that a good deal of the current national and world crises can be at least partially viewed as a conceptual and practical adjustment toward that fact. Because it is commonly held that any lasting solutions to these complex issues must involve greater understanding by the general public, this study examines some indications that the average citizen has little understanding of his culture's most basic and crucial aspect: its science. This in turn is seen as greatly influencing the citizen's ability to effectively and intelligently participate in the political, economic and cultural institutions of his society, which must necessarily reflect his and his society's transition into global identity. Continuation of this trend is examined as an overall diminishing of the constitutional intent of the American democratic form of government.

After defining what is meant by "the cultural process," the study briefly traces the historical development and expansion (conceptual time and space} of Individual Man's self-concept in relation to Nature. This portion is limited to Western civilization, and traces an expanding interpersonal scale of relations to its present global scope. The paradigmatic development of Man's science and religious institutions is studied in a way that encourages a more integrated conception of the present cultural paradigm.

The thesis studies the 1960s countercultural movement in American society as an emerging awareness of the human potential reflected in an instantaneous, electric technology. Following this is a discussion grounded in the present tense and centered around the slowness of Public Administration to convert this new technological potential into better communications links with its public citizenry, and what this means in relation to concurrent crises in society at large. The purpose here is to study ways the individual citizen can assume greater control of his own life to the benefit of society. This assumes what is regarded as the stated intent of the U.S. Constitution.

Public Administrative theory is discussed to find ways of updating the conceptual schema that would parallel recent human self-concept changes occurring in society. A brief exploration is made of increasing public involvement in planning and policy (private-sponsored} making interest groups and what this portends for administration today.

After a brief analysis of the philosophy of public participation in government decision-making, a four-level concrete model using communications technology is examined as a means for soliciting direct citizen involvement in public issues. Relevant research on this subject is also described.

The thesis conclusion involves the following elements. The displacement of the "common" citizen (both economically and politically) from the center of American society will continue to have worsening social effects unless a general institutional reassessment is done to correct input inequities inherent to the present structures. There is need for positive leadership and commitment at the federal government level to develop new, more direct, instantaneous, public-input models. Simulation results from experiments thus far are encouraging. There is need for re-evaluation of the proper role of Congress and the federal executive in light of modern technology, the present societal attrition rate, and impending crises of global transition. This must allow for a more task-oriented, goal-disciplined administrative leadership that manages "by design" rather than "by drift." The present status of the global political economy demands that today's World Managers begin to define their roles to include the element of human survival and individual enhancement rather than simply global corporate and political growth. Finally, that this will happen appears somewhat idealistic at this time.

Degree Name

Public Administration

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

School of Public Administration

First Committee Member (Chair)

Albert H. Rosenthal

Second Committee Member

Mohammad Shafi

Third Committee Member

Leonard Arnold Stitelman

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

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