Public Administration: An Introduction

by Marc Holzer, Richard W. Schwester

Marc Holzer and Richard W. Schwester have written a textbook that is distinct from the dozens of introductory public administration books now in the academic marketplace. Their vision is a unique blend of substance and style―a text that is both informative and enlivening, capturing the evolving nature of the field. The book explores the traditional, essential elements of public administration such as organizational theory, human resource management, leadership, program evaluation and policy analysis, budgeting, and the politics of public administration. Artwork depicts bureaucratic issues, reinforcing each chapter’s themes and creating an informative and aesthetically engaging textbook, while charts, graphs, diagrams, and illustrations add dimensions to the text’s overviews of public administration. New to this edition are three sections that provide a natural flow and progression of the material. Section I provides the theoretical construct of public administration, section II provides actionable material for public administrators, while section III deals with the future of public organizations through the lens of performance improvement and the techniques available to achieve such improvement. Each chapter is complemented by key terms and supplementary readings, and video cases and simulations offer a gateway to engaging students, encouraging them to immerse themselves in virtual problem-solving experiences―testing theory and skills through real-time practical applications. Students will deal with issues related to unemployment, budgeting, the environment, crime and education. The book is accompanied by a comprehensive online Instructors' Manual, complete with PowerPoint slides for each chapter, case studies, relevant YouTube videos to illustrate chapter content, additional artwork, webinars, and relevant films and tv shows to better engage students in important themes of public service. This text, then, is very much a dynamic learning system designed to enliven the teaching of public administration, improve the learning experience, and help motivate students of public service to become problem-solving public servants.

452 pages, Paperback

First published February 20, 2011

Reviews

[Benton Laufeysdottir · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK 👌

[Deborah Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 3 out of 5]

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