Holtkamp, L. & Garske, B. (2025). Verwaltungsreformen. Problemorientierte Einführung in die Verwaltungswissenschaft. (2. vollständig überarbeitete Auflage). Wiesbaden: Springer VS. 284 Seiten. (Online First)
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Abstract
The textbook Verwaltungsreformen. Problemorientierte Einführung in die Verwaltungswissenschaft (engl: Administrative Reforms: A Problem-Oriented Introduction to Administrative Science) takes a consistently problem-oriented and empirically grounded approach to administrative reforms, thereby deliberately distancing itself from normative reform narratives. In terms of content, the book focuses on municipal reform processes in the German context, with particular emphasis on budgetary drivers and institutional veto positions. Particularly noteworthy are the systematic integration of theoretical perspectives, the updated coverage of German-language research, and repeated references to existing research gaps. Critical points include the book’s limited international scope, occasional conceptual inconsistencies in newly added chapters, and its distinctly traditional didactic approach. Overall, the work is primarily aimed at advanced students, researchers, and practitioners, and it makes an important contribution to a realistic and analytical discussions about administrative reforms.
Bibliography: Marc Seuberlich (2026). Holtkamp, L. & Garske, B. (2025). Verwaltungsreformen. Problemorientierte Einführung in die Verwaltungswissenschaft. (2. vollständig überarbeitete Auflage). Wiesbaden: Springer VS. 284 Seiten. (Online First). dms – der moderne staat – Zeitschrift für Public Policy, Recht und Management, 19(1-2026), 1-3.