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Administration & Society, Vol. 19, No. 1, 74-94 (1987)
DOI: 10.1177/009539978701900104

The Theory of Street-Level Bureaucracy

A Positive Critique

Scott T. Moore

Colorado State University

The characterization of decision making by the theory of street-level bureaucracy is subjected to critical analysis. Its similarities to several classical assumptions, common to bureaucratic discourse, are noted. An alternative "political" discourse and a complementary framework are explicated to advance the theory of street-level bureaucracy. Street-level bureaucrats are conceived as inventive strategists seeking technical, social, and moral capacity and sophistication as well as strategic success in negotiating ambiguous work settings. A strategic model of organizational conduct permits the analyst to differentiate contexts, strategic modes, and work structures not permitted within the frame of the theory's otherwise potent arguments.


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