An integration and critique of the pluralistic thought of Theodore J. Lowi

The study of Lowian pluralism was divided into two parts. Part one dealt with Lowi's negative assessment of pluralism and his attempt to refute the "traditional consensus," that element of the discipline which believes in the orderly, representative nature of pluralism. Also outlined were the major problems Lowi sees with contemporary pluralistic government in the U.S. and how he would resolve these problems. Finally, an effort was made to define the major elements of the Lowian "personal paradigm."

Part two of this study represented an attempt at examining Lowi's ideas in a critical light. Here a concerted effort was made to bring any relevant ideas, information, or theory to bear on Lowi's personal paradigm. The initial portion of part two dealt with a critical assessment of Lowi's "interest group liberalism" thesis, commenting on both its major assets and liabilities. The two succeeding portions of part two did the same for Lowi's "law and disorder" thesis and his "arenas of power" typology. A final section dealt with the various elements of the Lowian paradigm from a juxtaposition, to see how well those elements mesh and to show the benefits of a comprehensive integration of Lowi's works.

Acclaim for the noteworthy contributions of Lowi needs to be tempered through understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. A comprehensive integration and critique of his works helped provide such an understanding. When viewed simultaneously, some of Lowi's major themes appeared to be, at best, confusing, and at worst, mutually exclusive. The Lowian paradigm, while seemingly brilliant at times, has some noticeable shortcomings and contradictions. Nevertheless, Lowi has offered much to the discipline. He has laid the foundations for many new ideas and theories, he has offered an invaluable analysis of our contemporary political system, and he has presented an overwhelming condemnation of American pluralism.