A Re-appreciation of Charlie Hitch and his Contributions to Economics, Security, and the Management of Organizations

Abstract

This paper discusses central ideas in the work of Charles Hitch. He is known for his pioneering contributions to defense economics and 'systems analysis' and for his introducing program budgeting in McNamara's Pentagon. We discuss the evolution of his work and ideas, and how his views on systems analysis were influenced by his broader interest in human and organizational behavior. The paper also emphasizes Hitch's skills as leader and manager of organizations (in particular as the head of the economics department at RAND).