ASSESSMENT 04 PUB bmz The Rational Model of Administration: Principles and Critique Table of Contents Introduction 3 1. Understanding the Rational Model of Administration 3 1.1 Intellectual Foundations and Assumptions 3 1.2 Positivist Perspect

ASSESSMENT 04 PUB bmz The Rational Model of Administration: Principles and Critique Table of Contents Introduction 3 1. Understanding the Rational Model of Administration 3 1.1 Intellectual Foundations and Assumptions 3 1.2 Positivist Perspective and Scientific Management 3 1.3 The "Administrative Man" and Bounded Rationality 4 1.4 Organisational Behaviour and Compliance 4 1.5 Decision-Making as a Core Activity 5 2. Practical Applications of the Rational Model 5 2.1 Swedish Higher Education Reform 5 3. Critique of the Rational Model of Administration 6 3.1 Unrealistic Assumptions about Human Behaviour 6 3.2 Limited Applicability in Political Contexts 6 3.3 Bureaucratic Rigidity and Lack of Flexibility 7 3.4 Incrementalism as an Alternative 7 Conclusion 7 References 8 Introduction The concept of rationality is central to the design and operation of administrative organisations. Rooted in the assumption that decisions can be made through logical reasoning and systematic analysis, the rational model has influenced public administration theory and practice for decades. This essay explores the fundamental principles of the rational model of administration and critically evaluates its limitations. Real-world examples, such as the Swedish higher education reforms, Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) in South Africa, and newer applications like data-driven decision-making in digital governance, are used to contextualise the discussion.