Policy Formulation:
Introduction

The public policy agenda has been set, at least temporarily. Through the politically sensitive filters at work, some issues have been deemed worthy of attention while most other demands have been politely shunted aside. Issues are now subject to open public discussion and a commitment by government to act has been strongly implied. Much may be posturing for tactical advantage or mere political theater, a cynical deception by politicians to appease the rabble, but, more likely, specific actions may emerge: laws, executive orders, administrative regulations. Money is likely to be spent. Positive results are anticipated, but not guaranteed.

To better understand policy formulation, several case studies have been collected.

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The documents that inform us about policy formulation divide into two sections:

1. Formulation I: Analysis
   1. Introduction to policy formulation
   2. Defining policy formulation
   3. Some Cases illustrating policy formulation and web-based resources
   4. Foundations of the American process of policy formulation
   5. Skills practiced by policy analysts
2. Formulation II: The politics of policy formulation
   1. Policy incrementalism
   2. Policy overhaul
   3. Iron Triangles, or policy subgovernments

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The Public Policy Cycle Web Site | Page: © Wayne Hayes, Ph.D. | ™ ProfWork | whayes@ramapo.edu
Initialized: August 16, 2001 | Last Update: 06/01/2014