Terminating Public Programs: An American Political Paradox : An American Political Paradox

This text examines why and when policies or organizations are terminated, how they can be terminated successfully, and what often prevents them from being terminated. The literature on termination and a variety of case studies are reviewed in order to identify theories supported by research. Talk about government cutbacks is as common as actual program elimination is rare. Even the most ardent proponents of downsizing government are reluctant to name the programs they have in their sights.This short and very readable book examines why and when policies or organizations are terminated, how they can be terminated successfully, and what often prevents them from being terminated. The author reviews the literature on termination and a variety of case studies in order to identify the theories of termination that have been supported by research. He advances seven conclusions about program terminations that should be taped to the refrigerator of every social scientist, citizen, and public official committed to achieving a balanced budget by 2002.