An overview of approaches to the study of public policy
List of Authors
  • Anyebe Adam, A.

Keyword
  • Public policy, Group theory, Elite theory, Incremental theory, Rational-Choice theory, Systems theory

Abstract
  • Political and social scientists have developed many theories, models and approaches for analysing policy-making. The theoretical approaches include elite theory, group theory, political systems theory and institutionalism, policy output analysis, incremental theory and rational-choice theory which are primarily concerned with public policy-making as a process. This paper therefore, attempts to examine each theory, pointing out its strengths and limitations. The study relied heavily on secondary sources for data collection. The paper reveals that one cannot authoritatively see which of these theoretical approaches is the best or the most satisfactory as each approach focuses on different aspects of policy-making, and this seems more useful for understanding some situations or events than others. It seems wise not to be bound too dogmatically to one approach. A good rule for the policy maker is to be eclectic and flexible, and to draw from theories that seem most useful for the satisfactory and fair-minded description and explanation of policies. The objective explanation of political behaviour rather than the validation of one’s preferred theoretical approach should be the goal of political inquiry. Each of the theories discussed, if drawn upon skilfully and selectively, can contribute to a better understanding of policy-making.

Reference
  • 1. Abdulsami, I. (1987). The Concept and Process of Public Policy. A paper presented at the national workshop for chief nursing officers, in Zaria, Wednesday 3rd June, 1987.
    2. Anderson, J.E. (1997). Public Policy-Making: An Introduction 3rd ed. Boston: Houghton Miffilin Company.
    3. Braybrooke, D. & Lindblom, E. (1964). A Strategy of Decisions. Free Press of Glencoe, New York.
    4. Dlakwa, H.D. (2014). Concepts and Models in Public Policy Formulation and Analysis. Kaduna: Pylamak Servicies Ltd Nigeria.
    5. Dye, T.R & Zeigler, L.H. (1990).The Irony of Democracy. 8thedition. Monterey, Califf: Books/Cole
    6. Henry, N. (2004). Public Administration and Public Affairs. 9th ed. New Delhi: Prentice Hall. Latham,E. (1965). The Group Basis of Politics, New York: Octagon Books
    7. Mosca, G. (1939). The Ruling Class, (Translated by Hannah D. Kahn), New York: McGrow-Hill Book Company.
    8. Obi, E. A, Nwachukwu, C.L. and Obiora, A.C. (2008). Public Policy Analysis and Decision Making. Onitsha: Bookpoint Educational Ltd.
    9. Simon, H.A. (1957). Administrative Behaviour: A Study of Decision-Making Processes in Administrative Organisation. 2nded. New York: The Macmillian Company.A