Relational Process Ontology: A Grounding for Global Governance. (May 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stout, Margaret; Love, Jeannine M.
• Is Part Of: Administration & society. Volume 47:Number 4(2015)
• Page Start: 447
• Page End: 481
• Publication Date: 2015-05
• Subjects: governance -- ontology -- relational -- process -- typology; Public administration -- Periodicals; 351
• DOI: 10.1177/0095399713490692
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0095-3997

Abstract

This article presents a Governance Typology comprising philosophical and practical theoretical elements which compose four ideal-types found in dominant Western political theory, what we label Institutional, Holographic, Atomistic, and Fragmented governance types. Then a fifth synthesis type is articulated, Integrative Governance, which is based on relational process ontology derived from alternative sources. The article then makes the argument that Integrative Governance is fitting in terms of the contemporary context and leading edge theory and addresses important critiques of the other governance types. In closing, the article affirms Integrative Governance and argues it is a more fruitful grounding for global governance and a more sustainable future.