The Contrast Between Politicians and Public Servants: A Closer Look

Understanding the differences between a politician and a public servant is crucial in today's complex political landscape. While both are involved in serving the public, their motivations, roles, and the consequences of their actions can significantly diverge.

Who Is a Politician?

First and foremost, a politician can be described as an individual who seeks to advance their own career while concurrently representing a public cause. Unlike a public servant, a politician's primary focus often lies in their personal advancement, campaigning for political parties, and supporting partisan interests. A politician may not necessarily hold a job with the government, but they frequently engage in political activities for a single cause or multiple parties.

Elected Officials: The Public Interest Representation

An elected official serves a similar role to that of a politician but with a key distinction: they are appointed to positions based on public elections. An elected official is expected to represent the public's interest in creating or carrying out government policies. Notably, an elected official may or may not engage in partisan politics, may or may not use the term “politician,” and often works alongside or oversees public servants.

The Role of a Public Servant

A public servant, on the other hand, has a more selfless mission. Public servants are dedicated to serving the public interest, often without seeking personal gain. They can be found in various positions, from unpaid board positions in local government to full-time roles in government departments or agencies. Their primary objective is to deliver services that improve, protect, or safeguard the welfare of the citizens. Traditionally, serving as a public servant was seen as a position of honor and dedication, but this image has been tarnished in recent years, with many politicians portraying public servants negatively during their campaigns.

Government Employees and Their Roles

Government employees can hold either elected or appointed positions. A government employee might also function as a politician, particularly if they are elected to a role. Elected officials and government employees, including executives, typically aim to represent the public or at least a portion of it, as public servants do. However, there is an actual theoretical framework that helps us understand the behavior and motivations of both groups: Public Choice Theory.

Public Choice Theory

This theory suggests that public officials, much like private market actors, are driven by self-interest. According to Public Choice Theory, politicians could improve their service to the public by leaving office and pursuing a career where self-interest aligns more closely with public good, such as becoming a public servant.

Conclusion

While both politicians and public servants are integral to the functioning of government, their primary motivations and responsibilities significantly differ. Elected officials and politicians often prioritize personal advancement and party goals, whereas public servants focus on the overall public welfare. Understanding these distinctions is essential for citizens to evaluate the genuine dedication of those in power and to advocate for effective governance.