Description
This textbook for public policy students explains the fundamental concepts behind this emerging discipline, providing an integrated view of a field that is often marked by strong differences toward epistemology, methodologies and theories. Smith (political science, U. of Nebraska, Lincoln) and Larimer (political science, U. of Northern Iowa) approach this subject matter with the intent to clarify a "confusing and cumbersome" field, and they define the key issues of public policy such as its relationship with politics, the tools used to assess policy impact and how to implement these policies in the most effective manner. The introduction of scientific processes into the study of public policy is also reviewed. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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Public policy has developed into a broad and interdisciplinary area of study. Research in the field tends to reflect this wide-ranging nature, with scholarly activity focusing on policy process, policy design, program evaluation, specific policy issues, and research classified simply as "policy studies." Yet, for those teaching and studying in the field, this disjointedness can be confusing and cumbersome. This text provides a reasoned and structured framework for the field of public policy. Authors Kevin B. Smith and Christopher W. Larimer not only discuss several major theories but also offer a consistent and coherent framework for uniting the field. This organized and comprehensive approach addresses core questions and concepts, major theoretical frameworks, primary methodological approaches, and key controversies and debates. The Public Policy Theory Primer is an indispensable text for the systematic study of public policy.
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