Comparing Public Bureaucracies: Problems of Theory and Method is based on the Coleman B. Ransone, Jr. Lectures delivered by the author in 1986 at The University of Alabama.

This study offers an unprecedented examination of the state, politics, and bureaucracy from a historical and comparative perspective. Case histories of a wide variety of bureaucratic traditions are provided in an effort to text a new theoretical approach in which the theory of the state and the theory of bureaucracy, both of which have so far developed without systematic interaction, are merged. Beginning with a chapter elucidating the editor's theoretical framework, the volume proceeds to compare state tradition and bureaucratic structures in both developed countries. Essays are included on nonstate societies--the United States and Great Britain--as well as classical state societies such as France and Germany.

Written by a leading authority in the field, this comprehensive exploration of the political and policy-making roles of public bureaucracies is now available in a fully revised sixth edition, offering extensive, well documented comparative analysis of the effects of politics on bureaucracy. New to the 6th edition: More international case studies on North America, Western and Eastern European and Asian countries. Discussion of how governments have been developing strategies to enhance co-ordination and coherence across their programmes. Analysis of the use of performance management in public administration. More tables, case studies and internet links. Extensive revision and updating to take into account the wealth of new literature that has emerged in recent years, including a discussion of E-Governance and analysis of ‘new public management’. Drawing on evidence from a wide variety of political systems, The Politics of Bureaucracy continues to be essential reading for all students of government, policy analysis, and politics and international relations.