Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis The subject explores several issues which arise in probing the political aspects of policy emergence, formation, implementation and evaluation. It aims to develop an understanding of the nature of public policy in terms of both policy itself and policy processes. The principal focus of interest in the subject will be Australian public policy, although writing on other countries will be used extensively to provide background, ideas and a basis for comparison. Particular attention will be given to the politics of the policy process, and to the implications of politics for the content of policy and for determining the potentialities and limits of public policy. There will be a focus on policy case studies in defence and foreign policy, energy, the environment, science and technology, and social policies. The seminars will also discuss such topics as the main frameworks or `models' of the policy process; government and governing in the modern state encompassing problems of administrative and political effectiveness and accountability; and the extent to which policy can be improved by more `rational' analysis.
Assessment Written (4500 words): 50% + Examination (3 hours): 50%