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A theory of the spoils system

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  • Roy Gardner

Abstract

In a spoils system, it is axiomatic that ‘to the winners go the spoils.’ This essay formalizes spoils systems as cooperative games, with winners given by a simple game structure, and represented by a fixed number of political appointments. We analyze the resulting spoils games by means of the non-transferable utility value, and we offer two practical applications of the results. Copyright Martinus Nijhoff Publishers 1987

Suggested Citation

  • Roy Gardner, 1987. "A theory of the spoils system," Public Choice, Springer, vol. 54(2), pages 171-185, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:pubcho:v:54:y:1987:i:2:p:171-185
    DOI: 10.1007/BF00123004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gardner, Roy J, 1984. "Power and Taxes in a One-Party State: The USSR, 1925-1929," International Economic Review, Department of Economics, University of Pennsylvania and Osaka University Institute of Social and Economic Research Association, vol. 25(3), pages 743-755, October.
    2. Gardner, Roy, 1981. "Wealth and power in a collegial polity," Journal of Economic Theory, Elsevier, vol. 25(3), pages 353-366, December.
    3. Eisinger, Peter K., 1982. "Black Employment in Municipal Jobs: The Impact of Black Political Power," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 76(2), pages 380-392, June.
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