The garbage can theory of organizations (Cohen, March, and Olsen 1972) has led a charmed life--to its great disadvantage. Although proponents have effectively advanced their ideas, potential critics have done little to bring about a productive intellectual exchange. This one-sidedness impedes scientific progress. And it surely has hurt the garbage can theory, which, despite its prominence, and despite the optimism and enthusiasm that mark its history, has never been able to overcome its inherent weaknesses and make the kind of contribution that, nearly thirty years ago, seemed its destiny.

This is unfortunate. Cohen, March, and Olsen's first paper is brimming with ...