Philosophy and Public Administration provides a systematic and comprehensive introduction to the philosophical foundations of the study and practice of public administration. An agile introduction to the main philosophical streams, from classical metaphysics to phenomenology, this thoroughly updated second edition develops new insights, such as the social ontology of public administration.

  This second edition is an accessible guide in using practices, models, paradigms, ideal-types and utopias for improving public administration. Edoardo Ongaro explores connections between basic ontological stances and public governance, shedding light on the nature of public administration by revisiting fundamental philosophical issues. The quest for justification and legitimacy of public governance is examined, and 'Common Good', 'Social Contract' and 'Personalism' arguments vetted. Ongaro introduces a new chapter that guides readers in developing research on the link between philosophical foundations and public administration and teaching philosophy for public administration in university programmes.

  This is the only book to provide a comprehensive examination of how philosophical thought matters for understanding public administration. It is a must-read for academics and practitioners alike reflecting on, or practising the management of, public services and the updated sections will advance discussions and debate among public administration scholars.