Discussion Questions

1. Compare and contrast the conventional “stages” model of policymaking and rational models of policymaking. Identify assumptions of each model and explain how the models approach policy differently.

2. Discuss institutionalism as an alternative to the “stages” in the study of policymaking. Explain the concept of the “logic of appropriateness.” Identify and explain different theories that have evolved within the study of institutionalism.

3. What is the advocacy-coalition framework? Discuss the role of conflict in this model. Explain how policy is developed.

4. Identify the principal actors in an iron triangle, the relationship between them, and why iron triangles may not be as useful a concept in the contemporary United States. What model is considered a better tool in the modern policymaking environment? Why?

5. Identify and discuss models based upon the idea of optimal decision-making.

6. Besides drug policy, discuss another policy through the lens of the constructivist approach.