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Discusses the nature and practice of public reason. Impact of the book "Postmodern Public Administration: Toward Discourse," by Chuck Fox and Hugh Miller, on the study of public administration theory; Difference between postmodernity and postmodernism; Implications of the postmodern moment on U.S. culture.

Presents several reflections on the 2001 PAT-Net conference held in Leiden, the Netherlands, which deals with public administration. "Too Much of a Good Thing Is... Wonderful," by Vera Vogelsang-Coombs; "Inclusion and Relevance: The 2001 PAT-Net Conference Leiden University, the Netherlands," by Richard Huff; "Reflections on Leiden," by Steven E. Aufrecht.

This essay begins by deconstructing the basic question of how the present is defined in traditional historical explanation or analysis. It is our contention that to "rewrite" the present, one must be critical, examining the assumptions and methods behind historical "data" to identify what might be missed--whose stories are silenced--when theorists rely upon only the "great stories" of past events or "great men,"and to reveal metanarratives of history that support dominant regimes, hegemonies, and power structures. We then examine theoretical approaches to the use of theory, pointing out examples relevant to public administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reflects about former Administrative Theory and Praxis editor Richard Box. According to the article, Box published an article in the September 2005 issue that personifies his scholarship and editorial prowess, focusing on the issue of mainstream public administration and normative public administration theory.

Relates the author's response to an essay written by Hugh Miller concerning the dark times surrounding U.S. economy and politics as of August 2005. Definition of dark times according to author Hannah Arendt; Factors that are essential to the protection of freedom and making human life joyful.

Focuses on the "Dialogue" section called "Dubnick Dialogue" which aimed to bring both PAT-Net members and nonmembers together in facilitated, focused e-mail conversations.

Announces the changes in the format of the "Administrative Theory & Praxis," journal. Consolidation of the Commentary and Briefly Noted sections; Addition of a section called Dialogue; Benefits of the journal to the practice of public administration.

Talks about the retirement of Bayard Catron from George Washington University and from active participation in PAT-Net, and presents an invitation for students to submit essays for the edition of "Forum."

Presents an invitation to submit essays that discuss original research.