Professional Skill and Support for Democratic Principles

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Abstract
This study examines the impact of professional skill on citizen participation and respect for political leadership among local government department heads in Northern Illinois. Data were collected by a mailed survey modeled after a number of similar research efforts. The findings indicate that although the respondents displayed some reservations about invasive citizen participation and the irrationality of the political process, such viewpoints were not a function of increased professional skill. In fact, within certain departments, professional skill education, and the presence of a professional municipal administrator were shown to increase concern for citizen participation and respect for political leadership. The findings suggest that within the local government environment, processes associated with professionalization and municipal reform may bring benefits beyond increased management skill.

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