ABSTRACT

This groundbreaking study systematically treats recent policymaking trends, starting with a reconsideration of salient theoretical issues of policymaking and its study and culminating with a survey of current policy-related predicaments in various countries. Dror proposes that the task for social science research is to uncover underlying causes of policymaking inadequacies. Standard research methods, Dror states, have been unable to uncover the realities of important decisions made inside governments. In order to gain an understanding of pressing predicaments, he believes that policymakers need to examine the foundations of contemporary practices of present assumptions, and that they need a multiplicity of approaches to policymaking.After prescribing a set of requirements that policymaking must satisfy in order to adequately respond to challenges, Dror posits several improvements needed in education and in policy decision making. The book concludes with an extensive bibliography, including numerous important German works not found in other English-language studies. This book supplements the earlier basic theory and models propounded in Dror's Public Policymaking Reexamined by dealing with current trends. As a guide to public policy literature and related works, it will be invaluable to students and practitioners.

chapter 1|12 pages

Scope, Concepts, Methods

chapter 2|34 pages

Policy Predicaments

chapter 3|26 pages

Policymaking Responses

chapter 5|14 pages

Policy Principles for Handling Adversity

chapter 8|22 pages

Needed Breakthroughs in Policy Sciences

chapter 9|38 pages

Approaches to Policymaking Redesign

chapter 10|22 pages

Recommendations for Policymaking Improvement