ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses several important theories of the policy process, beginning with a detailed examination of the policy cycle. It then explores some other helpful models, including incrementalism, policy streams and agendas, rational choice, and the advocacy coalition framework. The chapter also discusses incrementalism, policy streams, rational choice, and the advocacy coalition framework (ACF). It then examines another approach considering similar elements, but with an emphasis on the competitive and changing nature of the process, provided by the ACF. The ACF focuses on policy subsystems rather than official institutions of government, and it emphasizes the importance of core beliefs or values that drive coalitions to compete for influence in the policy process. Finally, program evaluation is designed to get at the heart of the effectiveness and efficiency question for government programs.
