MPA Introduction 2

Question 1

Which scholar is most associated with the politics-administration dichotomy, arguing that politics should be separate from administrative functions?

Accepted Answer

Woodrow Wilson

Answer

Woodrow Wilson's 1887 essay 'The Study of Administration' established the politics-administration dichotomy as a foundational concept in public administration.

Question 2

The concept of 'street-level bureaucrats,' introduced by Michael Lipsky, refers to which group?

Accepted Answer

Front-line public employees who interact directly with citizens

Answer

Lipsky's street-level bureaucrats are front-line workers like teachers, police officers, and social workers who exercise discretion in implementing policy.

Question 3

In the U.S. federal system, which constitutional clause most directly enables Congress to create federal administrative agencies?

Accepted Answer

Necessary and Proper Clause

Answer

The Necessary and Proper Clause grants Congress broad authority to establish agencies and laws required to execute its enumerated powers.

Question 4

Which model of public administration emphasizes customer satisfaction, decentralization, and competition among service providers?

Accepted Answer

New Public Management

Answer

New Public Management (NPM) borrows private-sector techniques, emphasizing efficiency, customer orientation, and market mechanisms in government.

Question 5

Which term describes the situation where a regulatory agency becomes dominated by the interests it is supposed to regulate?

Accepted Answer

Regulatory capture

Answer

Regulatory capture occurs when a regulatory body advances the commercial or political interests of the industry it oversees rather than the public interest.

MPA - Master of Public Administration Practice Test

MPA - Master of Public Administration Practice Test

MPA Introduction 2