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Paradoxes of Modernization: Unintended Consequences of Public Policy Reform
Contributor(s): Margetts, Helen (Editor), 6, Perri (Editor), Hood, Christopher (Editor)

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 ISBN: 0199573549     ISBN-13: 9780199573547
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
OUR PRICE: $137.75  

Binding Type: Hardcover - See All Available Formats & Editions
Published: August 2010
Qty:
Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- Political Science | Public Policy - City Planning & Urban Development
- Business & Economics | Urban & Regional
- Language Arts & Disciplines | Linguistics - General
Dewey: 320.6
LCCN: 2010285948
Physical Information: 0.8" H x 6.2" W x 9.2" L (1.30 lbs) 292 pages
Features: Bibliography, Dust Cover, Illustrated, Index, Table of Contents
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:
This book explores the unintended and unanticipated effects associated with 'modernization' projects and tackles the key question that they provoke - why do policy-makers persist in such enterprises in the face of evidence that they tend to fail?

Paradoxes of Modernization first discusses what is meant by 'modernization' and 'unintended consequences', placing public policy reform within more general intellectual and social trends. It presents eight case study 'modernization' projects. Their architects promised faster trains, a more efficient
and reactive health service, a more motivated public service, better performing local government, enhanced information for prospective US university students, reduced rates of child malnutrition in developing countries, and a free, open, safe, interconnected cyberspace for people to conduct their
social and political life. Each case provides a neat story with a paradox that varies the modernization theme and tackles the question: why was the project pursued? The conclusion categorizes the cases in terms of their outcome, from success to disappointment, and suggests some strategies for a more
balanced version of modernization for current and future policy-makers.
 
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