The Myth of Bureaucratic Neutrality 1st Edition

Capture a fresh, critical perspective on public administration with The Myth of Bureaucratic Neutrality, 1st Edition by Shannon K. Portillo, Nicole Humphrey, and Domonic A. Bearfield. This compelling work challenges the long-held assumption that bureaucratic systems operate without bias, revealing how race, gender, politics, and local context shape decision-making across municipal, state, and federal agencies.

Drawing on empirical research and vivid case studies from the United States and beyond, the authors show how formal rules interact with street-level discretion to produce unequal outcomes in service delivery, permitting, welfare, and law enforcement. Readers will gain clear insights into the mechanisms of administrative bias, practical examples of how it appears in everyday bureaucracy, and the policy levers available to promote greater equity and accountability.

Ideal for public administration students, policymakers, agency managers, and scholars of public policy, this edition blends rigorous analysis with accessible prose. Learn how to diagnose institutional blind spots, redesign processes to reduce unintended discrimination, and craft reforms that strengthen democratic governance and social justice.

Whether you’re studying bureaucratic behavior, designing public-sector reforms, or seeking evidence-based tools to improve local government performance, The Myth of Bureaucratic Neutrality is an essential resource. Explore a definitive take on administrative fairness and equip yourself to lead more transparent, equitable institutions—order your copy today.

Note: eBooks do not include supplementary materials such as CDs, access codes, etc.