Description
This module aims to introduce students to the process of public decision-making in modern democracies, and explains how decision-makers formulate and implement public decisions that have consequences for the everyday lives of citizens. The module sets out theories of decision-making and reviews the role of different actors in the policy process as they seek to influence public policy. Topics include the role of public opinion, politicians, and bureaucrats. The empirical focus is policy-making in `developed democracies', although student focus on other types of polity is welcome.
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On successful completion of this module students should have an understanding of:
- the basic features of the public policy process in ‘developed democracies’;
- the interplay between the different actors in the policy process;
- how policy-makers make policy decisions;
- how political factors relate to the policy process;
- how to critically read and evaluate social scientific arguments and evidence.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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