Science and Theory of Policy Studies

Week 14: Theories of Policy Change

POSC 315

Science in the Policy Process

Laswell's Motivations

The Scientific Method

Laswell's Vision

Theories of Policy Change

What is a theory?

Deductive and Inductive Reasoning

What characterizes science?

Anecdote vs. Evidence

Theories of Policy Change

Shared ideas among several approaches to policy change:

Kingdon's Multiple Streams Framework

Advocacy Coalition Framework

Punctuated Equilibrium Theory

Institutional Analysis and Development Framework

Socioecological Systems Framework

Summary