Federal Bureaucracy: Characteristics and Development
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Questions and Answers

Which characteristic is LEAST likely to be associated with a typical bureaucracy?

  • Standardized procedures and regulations for most tasks.
  • A hierarchical structure with authority concentrated at the top.
  • Clearly defined roles and responsibilities for each position.
  • A flexible and rapidly changing set of operational guidelines. (correct)

Which factor contributed LEAST to the growth of the federal bureaucracy over time?

  • The emergence of advanced technologies.
  • A decrease in the complexity of societal problems. (correct)
  • Government response to national crises, such as wars.
  • Increased public demand for government services.

Which type of organization within the federal bureaucracy is designed to be most independent of political influence?

  • An Independent Executive Agency.
  • A Government Corporation.
  • A Cabinet Department.
  • An Independent Regulatory Commission. (correct)

Which statement accurately describes the role of cabinet departments within the federal bureaucracy?

<p>They are major administrative units headed by a presidential appointee. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the federal bureaucracy?

<p>Implementing and administering federal laws and policies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which example illustrates the implementation function of the federal bureaucracy?

<p>An agency creating specific guidelines from a law. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which entity is an example of a government corporation?

<p>The U.S. Postal Service. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the Progressive Era influence the development of the federal bureaucracy?

<p>It resulted in reforms aimed at reducing corruption and increasing efficiency. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario best exemplifies the discretionary authority of a bureaucrat?

<p>An EPA official deciding the specific penalties for a company violating environmental regulations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If Congress is displeased with the actions of a particular government agency, which of the following actions could it take?

<p>Reduce the agency's budget through the appropriations process. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Hatch Act?

<p>To ensure that the bureaucracy remains nonpartisan and free from political coercion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following exemplifies 'red tape' associated with bureaucratic operation?

<p>Complex and lengthy procedures required to obtain a permit. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If multiple government agencies have overlapping responsibilities, what problem is most likely to occur?

<p>Duplication of effort and potential conflicts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action represents an attempt to reform the bureaucracy by improving its efficiency and customer service?

<p>Protecting employees who report waste, fraud, or abuse. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Congressional oversight hearings regarding the bureaucracy?

<p>To monitor agency activities and performance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of the President exercising control over the bureaucracy?

<p>The President issuing an executive order directing agencies to take specific actions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Government Accountability Office (GAO) play in overseeing the bureaucracy?

<p>Auditing and evaluating government programs to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a likely consequence if a government agency fails to meet its performance standards?

<p>Loss of funding or restructuring of the agency. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Bureaucracy

A large, complex organization with appointed officials.

Primary Function of Federal Bureaucracy

Implements and administers federal laws and policies.

Hierarchical Authority

Authority flows from top to bottom.

Job Specialization

Clearly defined tasks for each position.

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Formal Rules

Standardized procedures and regulations.

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Cabinet Departments

Major units responsible for broad areas; headed by a secretary.

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Independent Executive Agencies

Agencies that report directly to the President.

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Implementation

Carrying out laws by translating policy goals into rules and procedures.

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Bureaucracy Administration

Managing gov programs, collecting fees, issuing permits, direct aid.

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Bureaucracy Regulation

Enforcing rules to protect public health, safety, and environment.

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Discretionary Authority

Authority to interpret and implement laws, tailoring policies.

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Bureaucracy Rulemaking

Creating rules with the force of law, after public input.

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Policy Implementation

Putting policies into action and determining their impact.

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Congressional Legislation (Bureaucracy)

Creating, changing, or ending agencies/programs.

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Presidential control of Bureaucracy

Appoints department heads, issues executive orders, budget proposals.

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Judicial Review (Bureaucracy)

Reviewing actions for legality and constitutionality.

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Red Tape, Waste, Duplication (Bureaucracy)

Excessive rules/procedures, inefficient use of resources, overlapping duties.

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The Hatch Act

Restricts political activities of federal employees to ensure nonpartisanship.

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Description

Explore the structure, functions, and evolution of the federal bureaucracy in the United States. Understand its key characteristics, including hierarchical authority and job specialization. Learn about the factors that have contributed to its growth and the impact of historical events and reforms.

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