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6: The Bureaucracy- Outputs of Government

  • Page ID
    23442
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    Learning Objectives
    1. Students will be able to articulate an understanding of the individual in society.
    2. Students will be able to think critically about institutions, cultures, and behaviors in their local and/or national environment.
    3. Students will be able to think critically about institutions, cultures, and behaviors of the peoples of the world.
    4. Students will develop a historical context for understanding current issues and events
    5. Students will develop a greater understanding of world events. (1)

    • 6.1: Module Introduction
      This page explores the U.S. federal bureaucracy's role, structure, and function in policy implementation. It emphasizes the complexity of policymaking in a diverse nation and the bureaucracy's response to citizen demands, detailing the independence of regulatory commissions. The learning objectives aim to foster an understanding of the bureaucracy’s societal impact and its governance role, encouraging critical thinking about institutions and cultural behaviors.
    • 6.2: Lecture Content
      This page explores the federal bureaucracy's function in the U.S., focusing on FEMA's role during the 2017 hurricane season. Established in 1978, FEMA faces scrutiny after its response to hurricanes Harvey and Maria. The text emphasizes the expectations placed on the bureaucracy and the accountability mechanisms in place, highlighting the balance of power maintained by the president and Congress to ensure effective governance while distinguishing the bureaucracy from other government branches.
    • 6.3: Reading- Introduction to Bureaucracy
      This page discusses the transition from the spoils system to the merit system in U.S. bureaucracy, highlighting frustrations of those denied positions. It examines varied perceptions of bureaucracy, encompassing its inefficiencies and professionalism. As vital components of the federal system, skilled non-elected workers in bureaucracies facilitate government operations despite inherent flaws. The chapter further explores their roles, career paths, and rule-making processes.
    • 6.4: Reading- Bureaucracy and the Evolution of Public Administration
      This page details the evolution of U.S. bureaucracy, highlighting its growth due to industrialization and centralized politics. It covers the shift from the spoils system to merit-based appointments following the Pendleton Act of 1883, prompted by political issues such as Garfield's assassination. Key figures like Wilson and Johnson are noted for their reforms and expansions of public administration in response to societal needs.
    • 6.5: Reading- Understanding Bureaucracies and their Types
      This page discusses the objectives for understanding bureaucracies through three models: Weberian, acquisitive, and monopolistic. It describes four main U.S. federal bureaucracies—cabinet departments, independent executive agencies, regulatory agencies, and government corporations—each with distinct structures and functions. Government corporations like the U.S. Postal Service provide important services while generating profits.
    • 6.6: Reading- Controlling the Bureaucracy
      This page discusses the roles of Congress, the president, and citizens in overseeing bureaucracies and the complexities of rulemaking. It highlights the challenges of controlling nonpartisan agencies and the significance of negotiated rulemaking for efficiency. Oversight mechanisms include congressional hearings and transparency laws. It addresses the privatization push and whistleblower risks, citing Edward Snowden's case as a pivotal moment revealing flaws in protections.
    • 6.7: Module 6 Assessments
      This page details a module centered on U.S. governance's separation of powers and federal bureaucracy. Participants analyze a chosen bureaucratic agency's functions and its compliance with separation principles. Team projects involve researching a political issue and producing a supporting paper. The module also includes quizzes and a reflective paper on the learning experience.


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