Public Administration: An Introduction

by Marc Holzer, Richard W. Schwester

Marc Holzer and Richard W. Schwester have written a fresh and highly engaging textbook for the introductory course in Public Administration. Their coverage is both comprehensive and cutting-edge, including not only all of the essential topics (organizational theory, human resource management, leadership, program evaluation and policy analysis, budgeting, and the politics of public administration), but also reflecting new realities in public the importance of new technology, changes in intergovernmental relations, especially the emphasis on inter-local and shared regional resources, and public performance and accountability initiatives.

New to this edition is a dedicated chapter on big data and analytics to support decision-making and problem solving, as well as updates throughout taking stock of the Covid-19 pandemic in the context of public administration, including politics, decision-making, intergovernmental relations, and the interpretation of data presented to the public. An important new feature of this fourth edition is a fully updated and full-featured companion website, written by the authors, containing instructor and student support materials including PowerPoint slides, cases, simulations and links to videos, designed to engage and encourage students to immerse themselves in virtual problem-solving experiences.

This fourth edition of Public Administration has been crafted with student appeal in mind. Each of the book’s chapters is generously illustrated with cartoons, quotes, and artwork—all reinforcing the book’s theme that the field of public administration is rooted in the cultural and political world. Each chapter is also supported with a list of key terms, exercises, and additional resources. This comprehensive, contemporary textbook is an ideal introduction to the subject for upper-level undergraduate and first-year graduate students enrolled in courses in public administration and public management.

533 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2011

Reviews

[Benton Laufeysdottir]

I had to read this for class. It provides a really good base-level introduction to the world of Public Administration. In order to get the most from this book, look into the authors/articles mentioned throughout the chapters as simply reading Holzer will only give you the most surface glimpse of the different areas of study. However, the book is well-written and easy to follow. There are tons of great examples pulled from around the country, as well as sample tests, surveys, and reports that make it easier to get engaged.

[Andy]

Better than average textbook due to its incredibly easy to read narrative. The examples are solid and logical, adding to understanding. I like that the digital version often breaks up the text with quotes on the subject by famous people, historical & relevant paintings, or even a goofy political cartoon. Still, very occasionally dry or wandering, so 4/5.
Bs get degrees.

[Joshua Bupe]

OK 👌

[Deborah Davidson]

I switched to this text this semester. It is much more up to date and inclusive than other pubilc administration texts I've reviewed.

[Jim Twombly]

Better than most PA textbooks, but still a bit dry. Accompanying Powerpoint slides were not very helpful.