ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins with the assumption that if the government is to serve the goals envisioned by the theory of representative bureaucracy, the analysis must go beyond simply looking at whether women and people of color hold an adequate number of government jobs. It examines leadership barriers or the extent to which those in positions to shape hiring and promotion decisions believe that a representative bureaucracy has value. The book addresses the "glass ceiling", the subtle barriers to the advancement of women and people of color in government. It examines "subjective discrimination", the perceptions on the part of many women and people of color that their opportunities are limited because of their gender and/or race/ethnicity. The book considers the prevalence and impact of sexual harassment of women in the government.
