The ‘logic of escalation’ in performance measurement: An analysis of the dynamics of a research evaluation system

摘要: Abstract This paper makes a conceptual contribution to the understanding of ‘alternative logics’ (Pollitt) occurring in performance measurement systems crucial public policy domains. The major focus is on what has been referred as ‘logic escalation’ that manifests itself where strongly geared toward quantified indicators. What characterizes this logic unfolding peculiar dynamics through which becomes increasingly expansive and technical (and hence costly), and, political terms, control-focused. Drawing mainly resources Edmund Husserl's phenomenological philosophy, well Michael Power's work (performance) measurement, it shown sort linked constitution quantitative measures ‘abstractions from abstractions’. In addition, I highlight some organizational dimensions escalation’. use current Australian research evaluation system paradigmatic case exemplify ground my points observations.