Harris' Mirage: The Positive Service State

Public Administration Review, Forthcoming

Suffolk University Law School Research Paper No. 09-35

15 Pages Posted: 2 Aug 2009 Last revised: 12 Feb 2010

See all articles by Alasdair S. Roberts

Alasdair S. Roberts

University of Massachusetts Amherst - School of Public Policy

Date Written: February 9, 2010

Abstract

In 1942, Joseph Harris anticipated that the United States would develop a highly centralized and rationalized welfare state. The forecast was largely mistaken. The U.S. did develop a expansive national security apparatus that was relatively centralized and rationalized. By contrast, domestic policies were unevenly developed, and often highly decentralized in design. Harris' forecast was unduly influenced by his own observations of trends immediately before the war. He underestimated the powerful underlying forces that have historically checked centralization in the US, and regained strength in the post-war period.

Keywords: Public Administration, United States, administrative development

Suggested Citation

Roberts, Alasdair S., Harris' Mirage: The Positive Service State (February 9, 2010). Public Administration Review, Forthcoming, Suffolk University Law School Research Paper No. 09-35, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1441520

Alasdair S. Roberts (Contact Author)

University of Massachusetts Amherst - School of Public Policy ( email )

Thompson Hall
Amherst, MA 01003
United States
6175999029 (Phone)

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