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Abstract

Is systems theory, as developed by political scientist David Easton, functional in enabling the researcher to study and systematically analyze the intermediate-level political system represented by the Cooperative Extension Service interactions at the federal level? Based on an empirical analysis of the process for development of Extension's Fiscal Year 1979 federal appropriation, the conclusion is that systems theory does function well for structuring this type of research. With its eight basic analytical concepts, the theory provides appropriate units of analysis. With its focus on system, as contrasted to focus only on observable events, the theory enabled the researcher to identify some basic dysfunctions in the total structure under study.

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References

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Systems Theory as a Framework for Analysis of the Politics of Adult Education

Abstract

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References