Public Policy and Agent Interests

This book focuses particularly on what is termed the "Agency problem", where public servants that are supposed to serve as agents of the public often allow their personal and other interests to override the public interest, with adverse consequences to the society. This book therefore delves into the ethical considerations that must guide public policy-making, so as to ensure that the interests of the wider public are protected against the pursuit of the more narrow and largely self-serving interests of such public servants and their private sector collaborators. In this regard, the book lays great emphasis on the need for public awareness, transparency, accountability and inclusiveness in the design and implementation of public policy.