Question

1. Describe each the three dimensions of Objective Responsibility that Cooper outlines. Explain the difference between Objective Responsibility and Subjective Responsibility.

Answer 1

The three dimensions of Objective Responsibility

1. It is the responsibility of Public administrators to carry out the orders of their superiors and to account for the conduct of their subordinates. The superiors are accountable for delegating resources to subordinates to carry out the objectives of the organization. Subordinates are required to take the advice of superiors regarding any decisions that exceed the stipulated bounds of discretion. This is the most proximate relationship of accountability.

2. Public administrators are responsible to elected officials for carrying out their wishes as embodied in public policies. They are responsible for both preparing policy proposals and implementing legislation and executive orders.m. The administrators must be able to explain their actions and use of resources as per legislative intent and executive orders.

3. Public administrators are responsible to the citizens for considering their preferences, demands and other interests. They can do this by changing programs within the existing law or recommending new legislation to elected officials. Though this is the least proximate relationship, yet it is the most fundamental relationship of obligation.

Difference between Objective Responsibility and Subjective Responsibility

Objective responsibilities are externally imposed obligations.Subjective responsibility refers to one's feelings and beliefs about responsibility. Objective responsibilities arise from organizational, legal and societal demands on the role of public administrator and subjective responsibilities are rooted in self beliefs about conscience, identification and loyalty.