The Myth of Bureaucratic Neutrality: An Examination of Merit and Representation

Argues that bureaucratic neutrality is a myth that has been used as a means to oppress marginalized communities, largely disconnected from its origins within the field of public administration.

Uses a historically grounded positionality approach, tracing the myth of bureaucratic neutrality back to its origins and highlighting how it has institutionalized inequity, both legally and culturally.

Demonstrate that the only way to move towards equity is to understand how inequity has become institutionalized, and to constantly work to improve our systems and decision making.