ABSTRACT
In contemplating policy making processes in decentralized political systems - such as those in the USA - it is easy to be dismayed by the kinds of outcomes that can be produced. The process is characterized by a high degree of complexity as various sets of interests try to exert their influence within the arena provided by the political system. This chapter examines how shallow policy debate can be in the policy process for the case study at hand: natural resource management in Alaska. Public concern has been further intensified by the increasing attractiveness of Alaska as a treasure house of resources to an industrial society that shows signs of entering an era of general resource scarcity, yet is unable to significantly control its demand for natural resources. Policy problems in the management of natural resources and the environment are especially problematical because of the incompatible nature of the interests involved: environmentalists, developers, local residents, government agencies, and others.
