Organization Theory and Governance for the 21st Century

Organization theory is one of the most interesting, useful, and dynamic fields in public administration and public policy, and no student should complete their degree without at least one course in the subject. Yet many believe the field is full of “old dead ideas” – or at least ideas that went dormant somewhere around the second half of the 20th Century. Organization Theory and Governance for the 21st Century: A Public Service Approach, Second Edition breathes new life into this worthy field of study, providing the rich theoretical background students need to analyze and take effective action in public and nonprofit organizations to support contemporary, democratic governance -- all within a sociopolitical context that is increasingly complicated.

While other books offer historical or thematic overviews of organization theories, this unique textbook explores concepts accessible to—and actionable by—practitioners, alongside the available scientific evidence supporting (or not!) the concepts’ effectiveness. In addition to embracing a conscious and thoughtful awareness of the history and evolving nature of organizations and the importance of evidence-based decisions, this text integrates normative and ethical aspects of organizations and their operations, to demonstrate the role that public and nonprofit organizations play within a robust, sustainable, and functional democracy. While authors Austin, Rideout, and Park have retained the overarching structure of the first edition, this thoroughly revised second edition introduces all-new theories as well as updated examples, case studies, and reflection questions.

Organization Theory and Governance for the 21st Century: A Public Service Approach, Second Edition is essential reading for all students enrolled in graduate level organization theory, behavior, and development courses, particularly in public administration and nonprofit management degree programs. The book is also suitable for upper-division undergraduate courses, primarily in public administration and political science.