Progressive Utopias

The present and future characteristics of the society surrounding public administration are of particular interest to scholars and practitioners who think social change is important. An understanding of current conditions is a necessary starting point, but social change needs a goal, a purpose, a direction; without this, the question becomes "Change for what?" Three progressive models of an ideal society offer contrasting perspectives on political economy and the role of collective action. Herbert Marcuse would abandon the capitalist market, constructing a new society in which work is fulfilling, nations are at peace, and the environment is protected. Richard Rorty's thought falls within the liberal-capitalist tradition but includes progressive action to meliorate abuses caused by the market. Erik Olin Wright would move incrementally away from the market system and toward a form of socialism. Taken together, these models can help in conceptualizing potential change in the societal environment of public administration.