ABSTRACT
The content of this entry defines and discusses gender bias, the theories that have been central in its exposure and analysis, ethical implications, and the effect of gender bias in public policy. The theories discussed are elaborated upon as they affect the public service and its mission. Gender bias is an increasingly recognized topic with significant ramifications for citizens and public-sector employees. There are enormous ethical implications issuing from the way in which the legitimate needs of citizens are disproportionately recognized in policies and disproportionately served programmatically as a result of gender. In this entry, the ethics of care and the postmodern structural critique are presented. Both critiques are highly relevant to public administration. Finally, thoughts on attempts to present alternative feminist policy delivery systems are discussed.
