Abstract: The status of Woodrow Wilson as a founder of the academic field of public administration is explored in light of Paul Van Riper’s contention that Wilson's famous essay, “The Study of Administration”, had no influence on the evolution of the study or theory of public administration in the United States. The major focus is the politics-administration dichotomy. Kirwan, contrary to Van Riper, argues that Wilson's reputation as a major founder is richly deserved and he attempts to explain the nature of Wilson's contribution and its significance for the field today.

Key words:

founder, Woodrow Wilson, politics-administration dichotomy, public administration