Sixteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

Discourses on the responsibility of public administration in development have been characterised with issues and challenges related to faithful application of governmental policies, along with integrity, honesty, and efficiency at the foundation of the process. This lends credence to the ethical question: how can governmental policies and implementation process be done correctly, wisely, and in the public interest. This study examines the concept of critical thinking and dialogue where actors function as moral agents of change as they facilitate service delivery and value-laden engagements among policy makers and stakeholders. Drawing upon existing literature on public administration and relying on content analysis as well as Kurt Lewin’s “cognitive field” theory, this paper reflects on how analysis that is grounded on Africa’s empirical experiences could employ the tools of critical thinking and dialogue to engage stakeholders in choices, decisions, and moral conversations leading to service delivery and dividend of good governance.