This book is an attempt to better understand government service delivery in a developing
country context. In this volume, public services refer to services where some
type of government delivery of an activity is perceived to be necessary, desirable
and inevitable. Although such services might in theory be feasibly delivered by
either the market or even the community (such as by voluntary action), there is often
a widespread belief that it is necessary and desirable for such services to be delivered
by the public sector. For example, the delivery of police services to maintain
law and order is a service that few believe should be delivered in any sphere other
than the public sector. Similarly, social housing and primary education are also
widely delivered as public services. Taxes are the price for services provided by the
government. Whether one is considering the police, education or health care , all are
funded primarily through taxes, and these services are essential for the smooth functioning
of a society. The main rationale for government involvement in these services
which, in principle, could be provided by the private sector is that the
government will not withdraw or escape responsibility in cases where a profi t is not
delivered.