MAKING SENSE OF OPEN GOVERNMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF ITS DEFINITIONS, INTELLECTUAL ROOTS, AND CONTINGENCY FACTORS

Abstract

This dissertation demystifies the concept of open government, seeking to resolve academic ambiguities by redefining it as a dynamic process integrating digital and traditional means to uphold democratic values and good governance. It highlights the multidimensional nature of open government, tracing its intellectual roots across public administration theories, from the Invisible Hand to Open Innovation. A comprehensive contingency framework is proposed, categorizing factors influencing open government into macro (institutional drivers), meso (organizational dynamics), and micro (citizen adoption) levels, and mapping outcomes like economic growth, transparency, and civic engagement. The study then zooms in two such factors through a cross-sectional analysis of 127 nations, revealing that cultures with lower power distances, strong uncertainty avoidance, and long-term orientation tend to embrace openness more, with democracy playing a mediating role. The dissertation enriches theoretical understanding by providing a refined definition of open government and its relationship with related concepts, and offers practical guidance for public officials. It navigates the challenges of transitioning from bureaucratic traditions to openness, emphasizing the importance of cultural and democratic values in promoting government transparency and citizen engagement.

Tools

Login to Download

The University Libraries link opens in a new tab Graduate School link opens in a new tab © 2024 The Pennsylvania State University link opens in a new tab Accessibility link opens in a new tab Support