AP Government Chapter 15 Terms

According to Weber, a hierarchal authority structure that uses task specialization, operates on merit principle, and behaves impersonally. Governs modern states.

A key inducement used by political machines. A job, promotion, or contract given for political reasons, not merit or competence.

Passed in 1883. Created federal civil service so hiring would be based on merit, not privelege.

System of hiring/ promotion based on the merit principle and the desire to create nonpartisan gov't. service.

Hiring based on entrance exams and promotion ratings to make talented/skilled administration.

Law prohibits gov't. emloyees from active participation in partisan politics.

In charge of hiring for most federal agencies.

Schedule for federal employees ranging from GS 1 to GS 18, by which salaries can be keyed to rating and experience.

Elite cadre of about 9,000 federal gov't. managers, established by Civil Service Reform Act of 1978. Mostly career officials, but some political appointees, not needing Senate confirmation.

Gov't. agency responsible for some sector of the economy. Makes/ enforces rules to protect public interest. Judges disputes over these rules.

Gov't. organization that, like business corporations, provides service that could be provided by private sector and typically charges(Ex: US Postal Service).

Gov't. not accounted for by cabinet depts., independent regulatory commissions, and gov't. corporations. Administrators usually appointed by the president (Ex: NASA).

Stage of policymaking between establishment and consequences for whom it affects. Involves translating goals and objectives into operating, ongoing program.

Used by bureaucrats to bring uniformity to complex organizations. Improves fairness and makes personnel interchangeable.

Authority of administrors to select response to a given problem. Greatest when SOP doesn't fit case.