Policy Analysis: Concepts and Practice

This is one of the very best textbooks in the study of policy analysis. The first part of the book sets the context. It provides a neat case study of the Canadian salmon fishery to give an example of basic policy analysis. Following this are chapters on the nature of policy analysis and the professional ethics related to the endeavor. One of the most important elements of this book is the next section--the economics of policy analysis. The text discusses the logic of economics, why government intervention through making policy can make economic sense under certain conditions, and the danger of "government failure" (when governmernt actions may work against good economic sense). The following section focuses on the variety of policy options available to government to address problems. Some "solutions" are market-based; others include regulations and taxes. The volume goes on to explore techniques such as cost-benefit analysis. Two case studies of policy analysis round out the substantive chapters. The last chapter focuses on the responsibility of policy analysts to both "do well" and to "do good." Not an easy read, but a book that provides the basic underpinnings for understanding policy analysis--and how to do policy analysis.

I was pleased with the purchase. The item came fast and in the promised condition.

This is 'the' book when it comes to public policy analysis. I have read the 3rd and 4th editions and both are great foundational books for anyone looking to do public policy analysis as a practitioner or academic researcher.

I read this book for a class and it gives a fantastic overview of the basics of policy analysis. It discusses the reasons for government intervention in markets, the analysis of policies and ways of going about doing a thorough policy analysis. Easy to read and very informative!

I found this book by accident! And it saved my (academic) life, by giving me a clear, economics-grounded understanding of: -why markets fail -why governments fail too -what the alternatives are for correcting those failures (policy options) -how to do a cost/benefit analysis of the different policy options -how to structure a policy analysis -how to write it up and present it in a way that makes things happen.Whether you work for an advocacy organization, a politician, a government agency, a corporation, or are simply interested in better understanding why governments intervene in the 'free market', this book will be a great help to you, too!