PIA 2020: Administration of Public Affairs
Professor Jennifer Murtazashvili
Graduate School of Public and International Affairs
University of Pittsburgh
Spring 2015
At many points during our class, we have discussed Americans* low confidence in government. As a
policymaker, how would you diagnose the causes of this lack of confidence? Does it stem from an
inability to address market failures or is the source nonmarket failures? Or something else? Based on
your reading of our course materials, what would you recommend to improve confidence in
government?
*As we have seen, low trust in government is quite common in many countries around the world. If you
do not feel comfortable discussing the American case, you can deal with another country.
Note:
The essay should be no longer than 5 pages double spaced, Times New Roman font, 11 point font, with
one inch margins.
Remember, I maintain a “strict liability” policy with regard to plagiarism. If you use ideas from our
readings you must cite them appropriately. You are to rely solely on the works assigned for this class.
For this essay, you are being evaluated on your ability to apply the concepts we have covered in the
class and in the readings. You will be evaluated on the strength of your argument as well as the general
quality of your writing (grammar and organization).
Your essay should begin with a strong introduction that summarizes your argument followed by an
analysis of the problem. The essay should conclude with recommendations and a brief conclusion.
You can address the memo to the policy actor you believe may be most relevant to remedy the problem
you have diagnosed.
Due in class January 26 (both hard copy and in the electronic dropbox on courseweb that should be
available for Week 4)