A little less conversation, a little more action: Using empirical research to promote social equity

Abstract

This article advocates for a renewed emphasis on the use of empirical research on social equity. It argues that public administration research focuses too much on the differences between empirical and normative research and not nearly enough on how to integrate the two. This has been particularly problematic in research on social equity, where scholars tend to reiterate normative arguments instead of asking empirical questions about how those arguments operate in practice. This essay contends that public administration research can best accomplish normative goals related to social equity by engaging in empirical research about whether policies and programs actually work. If we are serious about improving social equity, we will focus on empirical research that helps policy makers and practitioners assess and improve programs that are unsuccessful. © The Author 2011.