Final answer:
The structure of the federal bureaucracy offers independence via a merit-based hiring system, leading to specialized, career-focused employees.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among various factors contributing to the independence of the federal bureaucracy, one prominent factor related to the structure of the federal bureaucracy is the establishment of a merit-based system and structured pay.
This system ensures that employees are motivated by their careers rather than political favors, creating a workforce of specialists dedicated to their roles. However, it can lead to excessively independent bureaucrats who may not be as responsive to political changes.
In terms of the complexity of public policy problems, bureaucracies gain independence through their expert knowledge in highly specialized areas.
This complexity necessitates a division of labor and specific expertise within agencies, resulting in autonomy because it's difficult for outsiders to fully grasp the intricacies of the policy areas they govern.