Reflecting on the Progressive Movement's Efforts to Improve Government Efficiency and Responsiveness

How did progressives hope to make government more efficient and responsive to citizens?

a. By advocating for scientific management principles
b. Through civil service reforms
c. By implementing electoral reforms

Answer:

The Progressive Movement aimed to make government more efficient and responsive by implementing reforms like scientific management principles, civil service reforms, and electoral reforms.

The Progressives during the late 1800s and early 1900s hoped to make government more efficient and responsive to citizens through numerous reforms. They believed in the power of the government to correct societal issues, and they sought to expand the role of government and its responsiveness to the public.

One key strategy employed by Progressives was the advocacy for the use of scientific management principles in government agencies. By applying efficient methods and systems to improve productivity and eliminate waste, Progressives aimed to streamline government operations and make them more effective in serving the citizens.

Additionally, Progressives pushed for civil service reforms, such as the creation of the Civil Service Commission, which aimed to replace patronage with a merit-based system of hiring and promotion. This helped ensure that government positions were filled based on qualifications, leading to a more efficient and accountable government structure.

Electoral reforms were also a focus for Progressives, with initiatives like direct primaries, initiative and referendum processes, and the recall of elected officials. These measures aimed to empower citizens by giving them direct influence over government decisions and holding elected officials accountable to the people.

Furthermore, Progressives borrowed organizational efficiency ideas from the business sector, incorporating scientific management techniques introduced by Frederick W. Taylor into government operations. Many cities adopted systems like the commission system or council-manager system to streamline decision-making processes and reduce corrupt practices.

Overall, the Progressive Movement's efforts to make government more efficient and responsive were driven by a desire to empower citizens and promote a more accountable and effective government structure.