Dubnick, Melvin J., “Move Over Daniel: We Need Some ‘Accountability Space,’” Administration & Society, 43 (6) (September 2011): 704-716.
Author’s Note:
This was written in response to Matthew Flinders’ article (“Daring To Be A Daniel“) in the previous issue of Administration and Society.
Abstract:
Professor Flinders makes a strong case that our obsession with accountability has turned “problematic” and even “pathological”. While agreeing with the gist of the argument, I contend that the essence of the problem is more ontological than political. What we require is a radical “reframing” that highlights the pervasive role accountability relationships play in governance— that is, an approach that would shift attention to the alteration of ongoing governance arrangements and relationships that occurs with each reformist effort to “enhance” or “improve” accountability. Governance takes place within accountability spaces, and we need to give priority to research that maps that space as a first step toward understanding the nature and potential of accountable governance.
AI-Generated Summary:
This document critically examines the concept of accountability in governance, highlighting its conceptual challenges, reformist paradoxes, and the need for a deeper understanding of accountability spaces.
The Ontological Nature of Accountability
- The core issue is ontological, focusing on how accountability relationships fundamentally shape governance.
- Traditional views see accountability as mechanisms and processes, but a relationalist perspective emphasizes its role as social relationships forming governance.
Limitations of Reformist Accountability Approaches
- Current discourse is rooted in a reformist narrative that overpromises the benefits of accountability.
- Reforms often disrupt existing accountability relationships, sometimes undermining trust and effectiveness, known as the “reformist paradox.”
Substantialist vs. Relationalist Perspectives
- The substantialist view treats accountability as a set of institutions, mechanisms, and processes aimed at control and correction.
- The relationalist approach sees accountability as ongoing social relationships that constitute governance, emphasizing the social space of human interactions.
The “Reformist Paradox” and Accountability Space
- Efforts to improve accountability alter the existing accountability space, which can unintentionally weaken governance.
- Mapping and understanding the current accountability space is essential before implementing reforms to avoid negative impacts.
Challenges in Conceptualizing Accountability
- The concept lacks a stable, meaningful definition, leading to vacuous promises and superficial solutions.
- Researchers face difficulties operationalizing accountability due to its evolving and ambiguous nature.
The Role of Accountability in Social Life
- Accountability is rooted in moral and social relationships, as seen in Adam Smith’s view of humans as accountable beings driven by sentiments.
- Contemporary social psychology emphasizes the importance of felt and affective accountability in daily interactions.
Implications for Governance Research
- A shift to a relationalist ontology offers a more accurate understanding of accountability’s role in social and political life.
- Effective reform requires understanding the existing accountability relationships and their dynamic space to prevent unintended consequences.
Accountability in Public Sector
- Different forms of accountability influence organizational behavior and decision-making.
- Informal accountability dynamics shape service delivery networks and responses to crises.
Educational Testing and Choice
- Testing and choice policies undermine traditional education systems and equity.
- These reforms impact student outcomes and institutional accountability.
Social Reality and Accountability
- Social constructs influence perceptions of responsibility and legitimacy.
- Accountability involves complex social and organizational processes.
Theoretical Foundations of Morality
- Adam Smith’s moral sentiments explore human morality and social cooperation.
- Moral theories underpin ideas of justice and ethical accountability.