Suchergebnisse

U.S. railroads are experiencing a period of almost unprecedented prosperity and success. Both privately owned freight railroads and publicly operated passenger rail systems are experiencing growth, yet the public's perception of the role of rail in the nation's transportation system remains rooted in past. This article examines the nature of the perception problem and suggests a number of steps to be taken to more fully engage the public on the importance of rail transport. These recommendations range from better communications with the public regarding rail operations to the creation of public/private partnerships and enhanced public investment in rail infrastructure and security measures.

Carl J. Friedrich's concept of administrative responsibility is examined in his published works from 1935 to 1960. Friedrich's idea of responsibility encompassed not only political and personal responsibility within the hierarchy of bureaucratic organizations, but also functional responsibility based on scientific knowledge and professional standards required by the reality of administrative discretion. Friedrich's notion of responsibility is contrasted with that of Herman Finer, who espoused strict obedience to political and administrative superiors. An examination of the NOMOS series of edited volumes from the later stage of Friedrich's career reflects the consistency of his views on responsibility and on the relationship of responsibility to authority based on reasoned communication. Friedrich's optimism regarding such authority contrasts with Hannah Arendt's view that authority is no longer an operative concept in modern society. Friedrich lays an important foundation for continued interest among public administrative scholars in the concept of administrative responsibility.