ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that when applied to the theoretical processes of policy making, many elements said to be vital for the success of a policy were missing. The development of arts policy fits the neat theoretical categories with the same ease as the ugly sister's foot fit Cinderella's glass slipper. Theory suggests that the original decision to make policy for a specific area in society results from the battling together of political groups external to government proper. In the 'formulation' stage of policy making, money and staff are believed to be prime considerations. There must be sufficient financial resources to design, implement and sustain a policy. Government attitudes to an area only become clear when the policy is introduced and has its first confrontation with reality. A policy's ability to deal with a real situation therefore will determine if it is effective or simply redundant.
