This article analyzes how Progressive-era theorists thought systematically about how to make administrators legitimate actors within liberal society and government. Organic idealism and pragmatism were the philosophical foundations on which Progressive legitimacy theory rested. The former stressed respect for tradition: the latter emphasized analysis and science as means to legitimacy. Post-Progressive legitimacy theories resemble the Progressive's, although some corrections and advances have been made. The major correction to post-Progressive legitimacy theory is renewed attention to the constitutional constraints that surround administrative behavior. The article suggests that, in the face of contemporary challenges, either pragmatism or tradition-based constitutional theory will be the likely foundation for administrators as they attempt to reflect on and enhance their own legitimacy.
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