Foundations of Public Policy

This course introduces theories and principles for understanding the actors and processes involved in establishing public policy. The overall objective is to develop some conceptual tools for understanding the chaotic web of interactions between the actors and events that influence public agendas and policy making. Central to the analytical approach is the concept of bounded rationality and how government institutions are often structured to operate within an environment of limited information, time, and public attention. Students also develop a familiarity with the role of political ideology discussing policy problems and policy alternatives.