The Politics of Bureaucracy (book)

"The Politics of Bureaucracy" by William Niskanen examines how government agencies, or bureaucracies, are influenced by political pressures and interests. It explores how bureaucrats make decisions, often balancing their policies with political agendas, budget constraints, and public expectations. The book highlights that bureaucracies are not purely neutral or technical entities; instead, their actions are shaped by political motives, organizational incentives, and individual motivations. Niskanen emphasizes understanding these political dynamics to better analyze government efficiency and policy outcomes, viewing bureaucracies as motivated actors operating within a political environment rather than just administrative bodies.