In:
Journal of Public Policy, Cambridge University Press (CUP), Vol. 4, No. 3 ( 1984-08), p. 237-259
Abstract:
Little attention has been given in policy analysis to the creative process of designing solutions to public policy problems. There are a number of difficulties in applying macro-level theories – whether from economics, sociology, philosophy or macro-systems theory – in the policy process. Any macro-level theory will tend to provide inadequate guidance in one or more of three aspects of policy-making: a model of causation, a model for evaluating alternatives and outcomes, and a model of how interventions operate. Our current knowledge about which policy strategies work best under which conditions is at best rudimentary. Academic disciplinary perspectives focus on a narrow repertoire of policy instruments. What is required is a design focus which draws on instruments associated with a range of disciplines and professions. A design perspective involves both a systematic process for generating basic strategies and a framework for comparing them. Such an approach will require at least the following elements: (1) the characteristics of problems (scale, collectiveness, certainty, predictability, independence); (2) characteristics of goals (value-laden, operational, process of goal-setting); (3) characteristics of instruments (suitability of different instruments).
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0143-814X
,
1469-7815
DOI:
10.1017/S0143814X0000221X
Language:
English
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publication Date:
1984
detail.hit.zdb_id:
875351-9
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1479886-4
SSG:
3,4
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