ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that collaboration is one very useful vehicle for resolving the bureaucratic-democratic paradox and the dilemmas it fosters. It demonstrates why collaboration among sectors, divisions, individual citizens, and institutions at all levels is very much in keeping with the democratic ethos of freedom of voice and freedom of initiative. The chapter argues that collaboration is a desirable goal for bureaucracy, for bureaucrats, for public officials, and public servants because none of them can function independently of the others. Lack of collaboration yields fewer and often poorer results than even the least successful collaborative effort. Public administration is entering an era where there is a greater need for collaboration among various social players. Responsiveness has a potentially positive effect on social welfare and improves the process of modernization in the public sector.
