The Future of the Government Process

Philip A. Hart
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Philip A. Hart: State of Michigan

The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, 1973, vol. 408, issue 1, 94-102

Abstract: Widespread disillusionment with government is seriously eroding public support for our system of democracy. Despite that disillusionment, the need for a viable Congress to set policies and to protect the rights of individuals may well increase as the nation moves toward a postindustrial society. Furthermore, the history of countries following the demise of an effective legislature is not very encouraging. While concern over the future of Congress is not new, today's doubts are perceived to be more serious. President Nixon's attempts to cut domestic programs without Congressional ap proval raises new questions about Congress's ability to act. Public support for the administration's actions stems from concern over inflation and awareness that Congress is poorly equipped to make rational spending decisions. Since Congress cannot be effective without the confidence of the public, Con gress should eliminate the need to raise private campaign funds—one source of public distrust—and must reform the way it handles the budget. Under the present system, for example, Congress never officially adds up the effects of the various spending actions it takes. However, meaningful budget reform may not come unless demanded by the public.

Date: 1973
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:anname:v:408:y:1973:i:1:p:94-102

DOI: 10.1177/000271627340800109

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