Administrative Culture in a Global Context

This book provides an overview of the administrative challenges facing various nations. While bureaucratic structures among nations appear similar, the methods of conducting government business vary from nation to nation. It is clear, however, that the process of globalization has narrowed the differences in the operations of administrative systems. Practices are being changed to comply with international requirements due to liberalization, the WTO, and the pressure brought to bear upon governments by multinational corporations. Is it possible that the twenty-first century could create one universally understood administrative culture? The editors of this volume believe diversity in thought and action is more desirable than the self-proclaimed universal paradigms originating in the West and that diversity will ultimately lead to a just and sustainable world. The major challenge before the non-Western nations will be how to maximize the positive effects of globalization and yet keep their identity and their indigenous systems alive, but with proper accountability and transparency in governance.

Jabbra, president of the Lebanese American University, and Dwivedi (political science, emeritus, University of Guelph, Canada) provide an overview of the administrative challenges in the global era. Contributors in political science and public policy consider issues related to the effects of globalization, the WTO, and multinational corporate pressure on all administrative systems, and look at the challenges for non-Western nations in maximizing the positive effects of globalization yet keeping their identities and their indigenous systems alive. The audience for the book includes students, scholars, and policy makers. The book is distributed in the US by ISBS. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR