INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ORGANIZATION THEORY AND BEHAVIOR, 12 (2), 291-309 SUMMER 2009 YOU SAY YOU WANT A REVOLUTION? Margaret Stout* ABSTRACT. Confidence in government continues to plague our field. Based on a dissertation inquiry, this essay offers a theoretical critique of public service through the lens of democratic legitimacy, suggesting many role conceptualizations promoted in the field conflict with powerful characteristics of the U.S. political economy. Beyond the traditional bureaucrat accountable to the Executive as dictated by the Constitution, role conceptualizations call for a variety of reinterpretations that contest our system of separated powers and representation through election. Furthermore, roles that promote social and economic justice conflict with many capitalist interests. While concurring that a facilitative role in pursuit of democratic social and economic justice is appropriate, this transformation must be undertaken using methods appropriate to what it actually represents: a revolution. INTRODUCTION You say you want a revolution Well you know We all want to change the world . . . You say you got a real solution Well you know We’d all love to see the plan . . . You say you’ll change the constitution Well you know We all want to change your head . . . (Lennon & McCartney, 1968). -------------------------- * Margaret Stout, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor, joining the Division of Public Administration, West Virginia University. Her research explores the role of public and nonprofit organizations in achieving democracy and social and economic justice with specific interests in administrative theory, public service leadership and ethics, the nonprofit sector, and sustainable community development. Copyright © 2009 by Pracademics Press