ABSTRACT
The theory of punctuated equilibrium (Baumgartner and Jones 1993, 2002) focuses on patterns of policy stability and change, and on the driving forces behind these patterns. Punctuated equilibrium theory argues that issues alternate between stable and institutionally protected equilibria in policy subsystems, and the more open and disruptive sphere of macropolitics. Policy entrepreneurs use triggering events to shift issues between these institutional levels, and in this way change topics and tone of political debate. While this theory was developed in the United States (US), it has potential for broader application, but the theory may also need some conceptual extension.
