Laws are essential in understanding the field of public administration. Laws provide
structure and guidance to public administrators, as well as the public. Without laws, there would
be no structure and no democracy. “The rule of law and the agreement that upholding the law
ensures liberty, fair opportunity, and functioning democracy despite whoever utilizes their
ambition for wealth or power to impose their will on the weaker members who formed who we
are” (Why The Rule of Law?, n.d.).
Administrative Discretion
Laws play a major role in administrative discretion. According to Behlar, “The Supreme
Court plays a crucial role in this area by interpreting both constitutional and statutory provisions
that limit administrative discretion” (Behlar, 2023). Administrative law allows administrative
agencies to carry out their responsibilities without the abuse of power. The Constitution has a
significant impact on the limits of administrative discretion. The Supreme Court helps in holding
administrative agencies accountable in case of a violation.
Creativity and Innovation
The law also allows for creativity and innovation, not just for limiting administrative
discretion. The Constitution was not able to fulfill all the tasks necessary, so it required more
strict laws to be put into place. The downside to this was not being able to be creative and
innovative. In an article by Christensen, it states what Woodrow Wilson argued, which is, “It is
getting harder to run a constitution than to frame one” (Christensen, 2009, pg. 604). However,
since laws are constantly evolving, they require adaptability. Collaborative governance has been
used more at the local or state level and has its benefits. “Collaborative governance entails
innovation” (Amsler, 2016). This type of collaboration allows the government to interact with
the public. “When innovation presents a case of first impression because there is no relevant case
law, managers should ask how to innovate by using participatory and collaborative processes
consistent with legal authority” (Amsler, 2016).
Conclusion
Laws are very much needed in society and in governance. Although the law limits
administrative bureaucracy, it helps the government seek creativity and innovation. Romans
13:1-7 emphasizes the importance of law and order and punishing those who rebel against the
law of the land. It also emphasizes the role of those who have authority over others and
encourages us to submit to governing authorities (New International Bible, 1978/2011).
Comprehending the impact of laws in society will allow us to better appreciate both the negative
and positive effects.
References
Amsler, L. B. (2016). Collaborative Governance: integrating management, politics, and law.
Public Administration Review, 76(5), 700–711. https://doi.org/10.1111/puar.12605
Behlar, A. (2023). Administrative law and the Supreme Court | EBSCO. EBSCO Information
Services, Inc. | www.ebsco.com. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from
https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/law/administrative-law-and-supreme-court
Christensen, R. K. (2009). Running the Constitution. Public Performance & Management
Review, 32(4), 604–609. https://doi.org/10.2753/pmr1530-9576320410
New International Bible. (2011). The NIV Bible. https://www.thenivbible.com/Links to an
external site. (Original work published 1978)
Why the Rule of Law? (n.d.). https://www.courts.mo.gov/page.jsp?id=1084
