Theories of Local Government and Politics

Abstract

This chapter reviews and assesses some of the diverse perspectives that have dominated recent discussion of local government and politics. Various theories have already been drawn upon, sometimes explicitly and on other occasions implicitly, throughout this book. This chapter provides an opportunity to consider in more depth a number of those theoretical positions. Some readers may regard this as an unnecessary chore yet we would argue that to consider theories in a more systematic manner aids understanding and debate. An examination of different theoretical perspectives forces us to ask new questions; to consider the views of a diverse range of thinkers; and provides access to competing explanations of the world of local politics. By examining the language and arguments of different schools of thought we may be able to, at least conduct debates in a more sophisticated manner.