Normative political theory is an important aspect in our society. Theories are tools utilized to
simplify problems, conceptualize, and provide opportunities for creative thinkers to invoke new
ideas into a discussion. Theories and concepts are building blocks for all organizations (FEMA,
n.d.). They assist businesses and professionals in responding to various challenges. Hence, in
simplistic terms, theories help make sense of things.
Normative political theory is based on an argument of how things “ought to be” versus how they
are. It affects our morality, motivation, justice, and permeates throughout society. So, how do
normative political theories apply or relate to disaster management? According to Sylves (2019),
“Another way to explore how political theory may contribute to the study and application of
emergency management is to consider its contributions to organization studies and theories of
public management.” However, prior to incorporating these theories into the emergency
management discussion, we must understand that emergency managers need to have the
knowledge, skills, and abilities to carry out the mission (Sylves, 2019).
Emergency managers need to have the ability to grasp and apply the concepts and theories of
emergency management. Whether that knowledge, skill, or ability is acquired through
formalized training or formal education, emergency managers must be well-educated and well-
versed in all aspects of their profession. Emergency managers without the expertise are likely to
“undercut” and “marginalize” the “profession” (Sylves, 2019). Hence, in comparing Jefferson,
Hamilton, and Jackson’s political contributions towards emergency management and the model
that I most support and find applicable or useful to disaster management and/or homeland
security, I took into consideration the “profession” aspect.
Being the third president of the United States and one of the primary authors of the Declaration
of Independence, Jefferson believed in incorporating public opinion into the public management
process. He was a consensus builder, who believed in community engagement. A true
politician’s approach that was “strictly accountable to the public and their elected overseers”
(Sylves, 2019). Jeffersonian’s favored education and incorporated educated men into their
hierarchy of decision making and public policy management. In addition, the Jeffersonian
approach advocated for a strong state and local government but opposed a strong federal
government in contrast to Hamilton’s advocacy for a strong federal government (Sylves, 2019)
Alexander Hamilton was known as a great American patriot. He was the first Secretary of
Treasury, and a major contributor of the United States Constitution who placed an emphasis on
results. Hamilton theorists based their success or failures on their results. They implemented a
performance and evaluation system to monitor desired outcomes. Hamilton public managers
were experts in their field with tremendous knowledge, skills, and technical abilities. (Sylves,
2019)
Jacksonians encouraged public participation in government. Jacksonians promoted and
advocated for the “common man” and the presidency. They encouraged presidential leadership,
and often dismissed the legislative branch of government. Jacksonian public managers were less
likely to be educated and opposed the political elites. They were likely to dismiss processes and
politics in favor of getting the job done in a timely manner. “Federal-delay or inaction” was
unacceptable to the Jacksonian’s, and they utilized media savvy to promote their positions and
decisions (Sylves, 2019). Sound familiar in recent history?
So, which model do I most support or find applicable/useful regarding disaster management
and/or homeland security and why? Although I mostly support the Jacksonian model, I believe
we need a trifecta to accomplish our goals. All three models are important in the disaster
management and/or the homeland security realm and need to be incorporated into any mitigation,
preparedness, response, or recovery effort. We need a strong federal government with resources
to protect us from national and international threats. In addition, local and state governments
often need federal resources during national disasters. Likewise, local governments are engaged
with local communities. They are more effective at developing relationships with local
communities. And state and local governments are more efficient in expending resources in their
communities. Hence, in my opinion, all three theories play a vital role in the emergency
management process.
Romans 13:1-5 states, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no
authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established
by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has
instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for
those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in
authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s
servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no
reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5
Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment
but also as a matter of conscience.” Regardless of the theories, we must strive to protect the
innocent and obey God’s law.
References:
FEMA.Gov (n.d.). The Political and Policy Basis of Emergency Management, Session 24.
https://training.fema.gov/hiedu/docs/polpolbasis/political
Holy Bible. (2021). New International Version, Romans 13:1-5. Romans 13:1-14 NIV -
Submission to Governing Authorities - Bible Gateway
Sylves, R. T. (2019). Disaster Policy and Politics (3rd Edition). SAGE Publications, Inc.
(US). https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781506368702
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