To Compare With Care: Lessons From a Journey in Comparative Public Administration

ABSTRACT In this commentary piece I reflect on my own research journey and engagement with comparative public administration. Today there is a risk that fewer academics may conduct thorough comparative research despite it being needed more than ever in the face of polycrises and polarization. In order to map a potential future I discuss some of the challenges we face and the importance of immersion and interaction in conducting comparative field work. Ultimately, advancing an international and comparative approach to public administration requires us all to think comparatively—to see beyond our own systems and engage in scholarly dialog. In doing so we must be prepared to travel, to listen, to immerse, and to compare with care.