Abstract

This article argues that the community of inquiry notion of the classical pragmatists has much to offer public administration theory andpractice. The community of inquiry is an ideal position from which public administrators can effectively examine how they approach prob-lems, consider data, and communicate. Participatory democracy is a vital component of the community of inquiry developed by JohnDewey and JaneAddams. The recognition of partic-ipatory democracy’s place in public administration is underdeveloped. The community of in-quiry context provides a useful lens to show how participatory democracy can nurture a cre-ative public service.