Politics and Administration

Question

Is there really a separation or dichotomy of Politics and Administration?

Answer 1

Early public administration scholars, such as Woodrow Wilson, believed that there should be a firm separation between politics and public administration. Wilson referred to this as the Politics-Administration Dichotomy. As representatives of the people, subject to the will of the people through the vote, elected leaders are the ones who provide policy leadership and direction. They are responsible for policy guidance. Administrative officials, on the other hand, should carry out the implementation of policy in line with legislative intentions. Administrators should maintain neutral competence, providing expertise and assistance to carry out the goals of elected leaders.