A global perspective on public administration? The dynamics shaping the field and what it means for teaching and learning

Abstract

Public administration is at an important inflection point with public institutions under increasing pressure, the challenges that confront government and society intensifying, and demands for transformative change getting louder. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a perspective on these developments and set out some implications for teaching and learning. The chapter begins with a discussion of key aspects of the state of the field and questions whether a global perspective is possible, or useful. Four key themes are sketched out, which reflect on, and respond to, dynamics shaping and reshaping public administration. These include whether shifting from big questions to big challenges can enable a more inclusive public administration; accepting that we live in a turbulent, VUCA world; getting comfortable with humility; and embracing empathy. Together these themes open up a range of opportunities and implications for public administration teaching and learning.