Chapter 3 Structuring Policy Problems Objectives

CHAPTER 3Structuring Policy ProblemsOBJECTIVESBy studying this chapter, you should be able to■Distinguish problem structuring from problem solving.■Understand the systemic, artificial, and interdependent nature of policy problems.■Contrast problem situations and problems.■Describe differences among relatively well-structured, moderately structured, and ill-structured problems.■Compare and contrast types of policy models.■Identify strengths and limitations of different methods of problem structuring.■Analyze cases of problem structuring in policy analysis.Inexperienced analysts suppose that problems are purely objective conditions that are determined by the “facts.” This methodologically innocent view fails to recognize that the same facts—for example, statistics that show that global warming is on the upswing—are interpreted in varied ways by policy stakeholders. For this reason, the same policy-relevant information frequently results in conflicting definitions of a “problem.” These definitions are shaped by personal and institutional interests, assumptions about human nature, ideas about the proper role of government, and beliefs about the nature of knowledge itself.NATURE OF POLICY PROBLEMSPolicy problems are unrealized needs, values, or opportunities for improvement.1 Information about the nature, scope, and severity of a problem is produced by applying the policy-analytic procedure of problem structuring. Problem structuring, which is a phase of policy inquiry in which analysts compare, contrast, and