ABSTRACT
This chapter incorporates some of the models along the way to help us understand how we got to where we are in various policy areas. The first stage of the policy process is problem identification. Two important processes during this phase are perception and definition. The usual discussion of ideology looks at the content of the various ideologies, such as liberalism, neoliberalism, conservatism, neoconservatism, and the New Right. The focus in the chapter is on how ideology relates to public policy. Ideology affects our perceptions of events and the way we organize and define or give meaning to those perceptions. This ideological view of liberal and conservative positions based on value preferences is employed to help structure the analysis of problems in each area and to examine proposed solutions. Considering the ideological positions on the issues helps to cut through the myriad studies and proposals and uncover the essentials, leading to a better understanding of policy issues.
