Published
May 27, 2022Page count
188 pagesISBN
978-1447360797Dimensions
203 x 127 mmImprint
Policy PressPublished
May 27, 2022Page count
188 pagesISBN
978-1447360803Dimensions
203 x 127 mmImprint
Policy PressPublished
May 27, 2022Page count
188 pagesISBN
978-1447360803Dimensions
203 x 127 mmImprint
Policy Press
Public Service Motivation?
Chris O’Leary looks afresh at the reasons for prosocial work choices in the first substantive critique of Public Service Motivation (PSM).
With critical analysis of theoretical and empirical research to date, this book explores the pros and cons of PSM and interrogates the reasons why people choose to work in the public and third sectors. It proposes an alternative theory for the pursuit of service, rooted in rational choice theory, that shows public servants are expressly motivated to confirm their values and identity through their work.
For those involved in public policy, administration and management, this is a constructive and stimulating review of an important but often neglected aspect of the sector.
“This book offers a nuanced account of expressive incentives in public life that is essential reading for all who want to know what motivates those we label as public servants.” Mark Pennington, King's College London
Chris O’Leary is Senior Lecturer in the Policy Evaluation and Research Unit at Manchester Metropolitan University.
1: Introduction
Part I: A Critique of Public Service Motivation Theory
2: Conceptualising Public Service Motivation
3: The Public in Public Service Motivation Theory
4: Decision-making in Public Service Motivation Theory
5: Observing Public Service Motivation
Part II: Expressively Motivated Public Employees
6: Rationality, Expressive Interests and Public Service Motivation
7: Conclusion
