Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Neutral competence signifies the ideal that bureaucrats and administrative officials perform their duties based on professional expertise and without political bias. It emphasizes efficiency, professionalism, and impartiality in public service.
Related terms
Public Administration: The implementation and management of public policies by government agencies and its officials.
Merit System: A system of hiring and promotion based on the competitive testing of candidates, ensuring qualifications and performance are valued over political connections.
The mechanisms through which bureaucrats are held responsible for their actions and decisions, often involving oversight by other branches of government or the public