An Open Letter to "Dirty Hands" Theorists from a Public Manager

Abstract

This open letter responds to what is commonly known as "dirty hands" literature. The writings so designated focus on the abstract question of whether ends justify means in public policy, but neglect to address the practical ramifications of policy implementation. A review of the background of the dirty hands question is followed by a critique of theory that ignores the moral agency of the public officials called upon to perform such acts.