Explain briefly the integral view of Public Administration.

Points to Remember:

Integral view emphasizes the interconnectedness of PA with its environment.
It transcends the traditional bureaucratic model.
It considers ethical, social, and political aspects.
It promotes holistic and sustainable governance.

Introduction:

The study of Public Administration (PA) has evolved significantly over time. Initially focused on a mechanistic, bureaucratic approach, modern scholarship increasingly adopts an “integral” view. This perspective moves beyond the narrow confines of administrative efficiency and recognizes PA as an intricate system deeply embedded within and influenced by its social, political, economic, and ecological contexts. It emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of various aspects of governance, rejecting a fragmented or siloed approach. This integral view is crucial for effective and sustainable governance in the 21st century.

Body:

1. Interconnectedness and Interdependence: The integral view highlights the complex interplay between PA and its environment. It acknowledges that administrative actions don’t exist in a vacuum. Decisions made within the public sector have far-reaching consequences, impacting citizens, businesses, the environment, and other levels of government. For example, a policy decision on infrastructure development might affect local communities, the economy, and the environment simultaneously. Ignoring these interdependencies leads to ineffective and potentially harmful outcomes.

2. Ethical and Social Considerations: Unlike the traditional, purely efficiency-focused approach, the integral view incorporates ethical and social considerations into the core of PA. It emphasizes the importance of accountability, transparency, fairness, and citizen participation. This perspective necessitates a shift from a purely rule-based system to one that prioritizes ethical decision-making and social justice. For instance, the implementation of social welfare programs requires not only administrative efficiency but also a deep understanding of the social needs and vulnerabilities of the target population.

3. Political Context and Influence: The integral view recognizes the inherent political nature of PA. Administrative actions are often shaped by political ideologies, power dynamics, and public opinion. Understanding this political context is crucial for effective policy implementation. For example, the success of a public health initiative might depend on the political will to allocate resources and the level of public support for the program.

4. Holistic and Sustainable Governance: The integral view promotes a holistic approach to governance, aiming for sustainable development that considers the long-term consequences of administrative actions. This means integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into policy-making. For example, sustainable urban planning requires considering not only infrastructure development but also its impact on the environment, social equity, and economic growth.

Conclusion:

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The integral view of Public Administration offers a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of governance. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of PA with its environment, incorporating ethical and social considerations, recognizing the political context, and promoting holistic and sustainable governance, this approach contributes to more effective and equitable outcomes. Moving forward, fostering inter-agency collaboration, promoting citizen participation, and integrating sustainability principles into all aspects of public policy are crucial steps towards realizing the potential of this integral view. This holistic approach ensures that public administration serves the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, aligning with the principles of sustainable development and good governance.

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