ABSTRACT

This chapter underpins the notion that, while the concept of style might not be able to take the place of the paradigm concept in the academic field, it can prove quite useful in comparing the use of different policy analytical methods in relation to the systems of policy advice, policy formulation and public debate across various countries. The chapter focuses on the perspective proposed by Craft and Howlett, and proposes that the concept of policy analytical style might provide a heuristic channel to reconsider the whole policymaking process, from policy analysis to policy formulation and policy debate. The policymaking style matrix can be used to characterize other countries on the basis of the data collected in the International Library of Policy Analysis series, as well as other policy sectors (either to compare similar policy sectors in different countries or different policy sectors in one country) and local public policies.