By reading this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

16.1 Consider the debate over approaching domestic policy challenges from a politicsbased approach or a market-based approach.

16.2 Understand the factors that shape policy in the United States and the steps in the policymaking process.

16.3 Examine the current educational reforms in the United States.

16.4 Discuss the politics of American health care policy, including the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and recent attempts to roll it back.

16.5 Identify other major social welfare areas and the important policies and issues they are meant to address.