The Constructive Chaos of Pluralism

Abstract

Conservatives want to get rid of government. Radicals think that government is just working to advance the interests of the elite. The third ideology—pluralism—sees government as the central, most important means for taking care of social needs. According to pluralists, the various institutions that make up government are the concrete embodiment of the society, the means by which social service work is carried out, and the vehicles through which new policies are implemented. The decision-making processes of government have a profound impact on the kinds of programs that can be implemented. These processes also force citizens to join together, voice their concerns through associations, and compete for influence. The decision process shapes the way we participate in society and in collective action. And the process of participation is not simply a means to other ends or outcomes, but it is also an end unto itself.