Selection of Public Servants into Politics: An Economic Analysis of Its Causes and Consequences

The selection of public servants into politics is a widespread - though barely understood - phenomenon. On the one hand, the strong representation of public servants in politics generates a conflict of interest and compromises the separation of powers. On the other hand, public servants bring in first-hand public service expertise beneficial to legislating and oversight. This book is the first comprehensive attempt to analyze the institutional determinants and the consequences of the selection of public servants into politics. The author emphasizes the importance of institutions for political accountability and political selection.