The theories of public policy analysis, as outlined in the provided reference, are primarily concerned with understanding the process of public policy making and include elite theory, group theory, political systems theory and institutionalism, policy output analysis, incremental theory, and rational choice theory.
Key Theories from the Reference
According to the document titled "PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS" from frsc.gov.ng, the theoretical approaches used in public policy analysis that focus on the policy-making process are:
- Elite theory
- Group theory
- Political systems theory and institutionalism
- Policy output analysis
- Incremental theory
- Rational choice theory
These frameworks provide different lenses through which analysts can examine how policies are formulated, adopted, implemented, and evaluated within a political system.
Detailed Overview of Each Theory
Each theory offers a distinct perspective on the forces and actors that shape public policy:
Elite Theory
This theory suggests that policy is made by a small group of powerful individuals or institutions who hold significant influence over the political system and economy, often acting in their own interests rather than those of the masses.
Group Theory
In contrast to elite theory, group theory posits that policy is the result of the constant struggle and compromise among various organized interest groups competing for influence over government decisions.
Political Systems Theory and Institutionalism
This approach views the policy process as operating within a broader political system, where inputs (like demands and support) are processed by political institutions (like legislatures, executives, and courts) to produce outputs (policies). Institutionalism emphasizes the role of formal and informal rules, structures, and norms in shaping policy outcomes.
Policy Output Analysis
This approach focuses on describing and explaining the actual outcomes or "outputs" of the political system – the policies themselves. It often involves comparing policies across different jurisdictions or over time to identify patterns and determinants.
Incremental Theory
Incrementalism suggests that policy is typically made in small, gradual adjustments to existing policies rather than through radical, comprehensive changes. This is often seen as a more realistic description of how policy change occurs in complex, pluralistic systems.
Rational Choice Theory
This theory applies economic principles to political analysis, assuming that individuals (like voters, politicians, and bureaucrats) act rationally to maximize their own utility or preferences when participating in the policy process. Policy outcomes are seen as the result of these self-interested calculations.
Summary Table
Here is a brief overview of the theories discussed, based on their focus on the policy-making process:
| Theory | Primary Focus on Policy Process |
|---|---|
| Elite Theory | Influence of powerful few |
| Group Theory | Competition and compromise among interest groups |
| Political Systems Theory & Institutionalism | System structure and institutional rules shaping outputs |
| Policy Output Analysis | Describing and explaining the nature and variation of policies |
| Incremental Theory | Gradual, small adjustments to existing policy |
| Rational Choice Theory | Actions of self-interested, rational actors |
These theories provide foundational frameworks for analyzing how public policy comes into being within a political context.
