Holding Power to Account

This text provides a general overview of accountability, a key concept in modern democratic governance. Richard Mulgan draws on examples and analyses from the United States and the United Kingdom as well as other “Westminster” countries. Major topics discussed include the contrast between accountability in the public and private sectors, the effects of public management reforms on accountability, accountability for collective actions, accountability in networks and the limits of accountability.

Author Biography

RICHARD MULGAN is Reader in Public Policy at the Australian National University and was formerly Professor of Classics and Political Studies at the University of Otago and Professor of Political Studies at the University of Auckland. He has written extensively on Greek political thought, New Zealand Politics and public sector management.