Public policy is commonly defined as a purposive pattern of public action. Elected officials authorize the use of various incentives and inducements to shape behavior in hopes of realizing specific political, social, and economic objectives. This course provides an introduction to public policy analysis. We begin with a discussion of how best to model policy problems and design policies, while remaining sensitive to the factors that impede effective implementation. Next, participants will be introduced to various tools of policy analysis and evaluation. In addition, we will discuss the relevance of institutional design in identifying the sources of policy failure. Finally, we will explore some of the normative concerns that confront policymakers. Over the course of the semester, we will have the opportunity to examine key economic, educational, regulatory, and welfare policies.
COURSE FORMAT: Lecture Discussion
Level: UG Credit: 1.00 Gen Ed Area & Dept: SBS GOVT
Prerequisites: None
Last Updated on MAR-10-1997
Copyright Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut, 06459