The federal government and public management: the Druckerian approach

Abstract

Examines Peter Drucker’s views on government and public management, with special reference to the domestic sphere in the USA. Both Professor Drucker’s diagnosis of the problems government face, including excessive size, power, and poor performance, and his prescriptions, including a major program of privatization, are examined. In analysing his views, several concerns are expressed, including a lack of empirical support for many of his claims and an over‐reliance on the private sector. The article concludes that the Druckerian approach is more that of political theorist than management consultant, and that as a political theorist he has made a major contribution by developing themes that everyone needs to consider ‐ the power and performance of government, the nature and role of private power, the determination and protection of the common good in a pluralist world, and the preservation of the freedom and dignity of the individual in a world of multiple, impersonal power centers.