ART - Book Review - A History of Govt Contracting 2003

The document is a review of a book titled "A History of Government Contracting" by Charles R. Nagle. The reviewer states that the book's thesis, which argues that government contracts reflect the country's changing goals and needs, is more plausible than most people realize. The book provides a thorough examination of historical facts, particularly military contracting documents, and offers intriguing ideas related to price gouging, contract litigiousness, and the problems of government contracting. The book aims to inform public administration scholars and procurement officials about the recurring problems in government contracting throughout history, including the military-industrial complex, price gouging, conflicts of interest, favoritism in awarding contracts, competition and fixed-priced contracts, and contracting process reform. It fills gaps in understanding by providing a comprehensive and systematic description of the historical environment in which contracting officials lived and worked. However, the reviewer points out some problems with the book. They criticize the author's selectivity in including historical facts and contracts, suggesting that the book should have focused on specific themes and included contracts that illustrate those themes. They also argue that the book lacks regard for the use of government contracts as a policy measure to achieve socio-political objectives, and suggest that more attention should be given to this matter. Additionally, the reviewer notes that the book does not include any discussion of state government contracts, which is disappointing considering their importance and similarities to federal contracts. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer acknowledges that the book is an important work that is stimulating in its use of historical facts and deserves further pursuit. They praise the author's writing style, energy, wit, and insight, and believe that the book will contribute to the appreciation of the field of government contracting.