In his lecture, Dr. Pestritto discusses the ideas of Frank Goodnow and other Progressives on how our system of government needed to change. What did these Progressive politicians want to fundamentally change in our system? How would these changes impact the basic structure of our system?

Progressive politicians have had a very important role in shaping American politics. Progressivism refers to a view that focuses on improving social conditions of the people of the country. This movement was particularly important during the early years of the twentieth century. Progressive politicians such as Frank Goodnow were merely concerned with the idea of creating a government that was more efficient and fairer. Many of the changes that this people implemented greatly impacted our country. Frank Goodnow was instrumental when it came to perfecting certain administrative concepts and processes. Many other progressivists had great success implementing measures such as healthcare, public education and unemployment insurance.