Gender Images In Public Administration

Gender Images In Public Administration is a ground-breaking examination of how widely-held ideas about masculinity and femininity shape current images of the American public administrator. By examining current theories in the practice of public administration, Stivers describes how the various images of the public administrator, such as the professional expert, the visionary leader, the guardian, and the citizen, not only possess traditional masculine features but confer privileges on men and pose practical dilemmas for women. The author concludes with suggestions about how feminist thinking might help reduce gender bias in current theory and practice. Faculty in public administration who wish to introduce students to this unique perspective of the field will find this work a valuable resource, as will all public administration professionals who must struggle daily with gender and leadership issues.