Big questions of artificial intelligence (AI) in public administration and public policy

Technological advancements have created notable turning points throughout the history of humanity. Significant changes in the structures of societies are the result of modern technological discoveries. The artificial intelligence (AI) revolution and complex algorithms now affect daily lives, societies, and government structures more than ever. Governments are the main coordinators of technological change and supervisors of the general activities of modern public administration systems. Hence, public administration has specific responsibilities in the integration and regulation of AI technology. This thesis concentrates on the big questions of AI in the public administration literature. The discussion of "big questions" in public administration began in 1995 by Roberth Behn. The fundamental motivation of the big questions approach is shaped by the fact that "questions are as important as answers." Within this framework, five big questions emerge out of the AI discussion in the public administration literature. The aim of this thesis is to identify big questions and to discuss answers and solutions to these questions in the literature. To this end, in the first chapter of this thesis, the definition of AI technology and future projections of AI are examined. In the second chapter, the digitalization process in public administration, the adaptation of AI into the public sector, and the potential opportunities and threats of AI are evaluated. In the third chapter, data-driven public policy, the effect of AI and machine learning on policy making process and the concepts of public policymaking 3.0 are evaluated. In the fourth chapter, AI governance, AI regulations, AI principles and AI ethics are discussed in a holistic perspective. Thus, this thesis aims to shed light on the use of AI in public administration and endeavors to draw attention to the position and importance of the public administration discipline in AI research.