ABSTRACT
In this chapter the discussion balance shifts from theory and practice to theory and practice, but argues for praxis. It also argues that there is a need for praxis regarding the rational model and its critiques. In a sense we are arguing for a fourth criteria for evaluating models.1 That fourth criteria is applicability in the field (practicality for practitioners). As we have already discussed and implied, public policymaking is not a simple technical process. Public policy analysts must not only possess quantitative and other technical skills but must also understand that politics is fundamentally a conflict over interests and values and that policies are ultimately resolved through political power.
