Studying Public Policy: Policy Cycles and Policy Subsystems

This is a nice, functional textbook on the public policy process. It is a bit brief for my tastes, but is organized nicely.The first part lays out the basics--Why study public policy? What are the theoretical approaches to public policy? What is the context in which public policy develops. This is an important chapter, since context varies from country to country, and the reader must understand that. I teach a graduate course in public policy and a doctoral course in policy analysis. The chapter on context, to me, is critical in such a class--and the chapter is nicely done in this text.The next part of the book looks at the stages of the policy process: (1) agenda setting (what are the issues that get on the table for serious discussion); (2) policy formulation (How do we determine the policy alternatives from which to choose?); (3) Decision-making (How does a policy get made?); (4) How are policies implemented (put into effect?); (5) How do we evaluate policies.The final chapter looks at policy change.All in all, a nicely written book that considers key issues. Perhaps somewhat more detail would be helpful, but. . . .

This book is good for those going into Policy. Concise, and lays down the basics very well, while not just "skimming" the topic.

A very boring book too complicated to enjoy the subject

Looking around for a book on policy studies for advanced and graduate students, I have carefully checked about two dozen popular introductory works. This one by Howlett and Ramesh is by far the most stringently argued and best structured work on the policy process that I have come across. This book really is an eye-opener on the policy process. My students find it demanding but extremely instructive and stimulating in thinking about how policies are being made. Strong recommendation!

As described.

Overall rating is positive. Fast dispatch.

It’s a really dull book just from the material viewpoint and requires a bit of pre-existing knowledge to help you go through it a little bit better for a clearer picture. Ultimately though the concepts are helpful and useful in Canadian Public Policy. Just don’t be deterred by it’s language.

It took a month to receive it. And it has many notes along the text. It doesn't affect my reading and i'd probably would buy it anyway but It was Nice to know it before buying it.

Required reading for my course. Not a bad read. It does a good job of introducing some basic health systems policies.