Textbooks in Policy Studies / Understanding Public Policy

Introduction: Theories and Issues.- What is Public Policy? How Should We Study It?.- Power and Public Policy.- Institutions and 'New Institutionalism'.- Rationality and Incrementalism.- Structural Explanations.- Rational Choice Theory.- Multi-Level Governance.- Punctuated Equilibrium.- The Advocacy Coalition Framework.- The Role of Ideas.- Policy Transfer.- Conclusion.

Paul Cairney is Professor of Politics and Public Policy at the University of Stirling, UK

'This important and even-handed new text will be very useful not only in teaching students but also to advanced scholars. Rather than review individual policies, Cairney focuses his attention on the theoretical approaches that allow us to make sense of the confusing relations among citizens and elites that produce government action. The result is the best available synthesis and a strong argument for cross-fertilization and the use of multiple approaches.' - Frank R. Baumgartner, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA'A unique text. Its great asset is to take an analytic approach in a field where most introductory volumes are descriptive. Well pitched for undergraduate teaching, it nevertheless addresses the cutting-edge debates on theory and models in policy analysis and highlights their key and vibrant contribution to political and social science.' - Claudio Radaelli, University of Exeter 'This welcome book provides an excellent balance between explaining the major theories of public policy and applying them in a comparative manner. Paul Cairney has a unique talent for connecting the different perspectives on public policy, which makes the book suitable for both undergraduates and graduates.' - Donley T. Studlar, West Virginia University, USA