Catastrophe Theory as a Paradigm for Development Administration
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-1998
Description
Catastrophe theory, a field of applied mathematics developed by Rene Thom and others in the 1970s, offers some promise as a paradigm for the study of developmental administration. The dynamic and qualitative nature of this approach can lead to various insights that some current and previous models lacked. The application of catastrophe theory to the political situation in Malaysia in the early 1960s demonstrates how such a theoretical approach can be fitted to specific political systems and situations. The author concludes by suggesting other national political settings where catastrophe theory might be fruitfully applied in the study of development and comparative administration.
Citation Information
Felker, Lon S.. 1998. Catastrophe Theory as a Paradigm for Development Administration. International Journal of Public Administration. Vol.21(12). 1803-1820. https://doi.org/10.1080/01900699808525369 ISSN: 0190-0692