Showing papers on "Public policy published in 1997"

Africa's Growth Tragedy: Policies and Ethnic Divisions

Abstract: Explaining cross-country differences in growth rates requires not only an understanding of the link between growth and public policies, but also an understanding of why countries choose different public policies. This paper shows that ethnic diversity helps explain cross-country differences in public policies and other economic indicators. In the case of Sub-Saharan Africa, economic growth is associated with low schooling, political instability, underdeveloped financial systems, distorted foreign exchange markets, high government deficits, and insufficient infrastructure. Africa's high ethnic fragmentation explains a significant part of most of these characteristics.

Separation of Powers and Political Accountability

Abstract: Political constitutions are incomplete contracts and therefore leave room for abuse of power. In democracies, elections are the primary mechanism for disciplining public officials, but they are not sufficient. Separation of powers between executive and legislative bodies also helps to prevent the abuse of power, but only with appropriate checks and balances. Checks and balances work by creating a conflict of interest between the executive and the legislature, yet requiring both bodies to agree on public policy. In this way, the two bodies discipline each other to the voters' advantage. Under appropriate checks and balances, separation of powers also helps the voters elicit information.

World development report 1997 : the state in a changing world

Abstract: This is the twentieth in the annual series assessing major development issues. The report is devoted to the role and effectiveness of the state: what it should do, how it should do it, and how it can improve in a rapidly changing world. Governments with both centrally-planned and mixed economies are shrinking their market role because of failed state interventions. This report takes an opposite stance: that state's role in the institutional environment underlying the economy, that is, its ability to enforce a rule of law to underpin transactions, is vital to making government contribute more effectively to development. It argues against reducing government to a minimalist state, explaining that development requires an effective state that plays a facilitator role in encouraging and complementing the activities of private businesses and individuals. The report presents a state reform framework strategy: First, focus the state's activities to match its capabilities; and second, look for ways to improve the state's capability by re-invigorating public institutions. Successful and unsuccessful examples of states and state reform provide illustrations.

Policy Design for Democracy

Abstract: How can democracy be improved in an age when people are profoundly disenchanted with government? Part of the answer lies in the design of public policy that unmistakably works to advance citizenship by listening to, educating, and involving ordinary people. Schneider and Ingram evaluate the current approaches to policy theory and recommend a series of reforms that will improve policy designs and help restore citizen confidence in government. Policy Design for Democracy is one of the first books to examine systematically the broader implications of the substantive aspects of public policy.

After Disaster: Agenda Setting, Public Policy, and Focusing Events

Abstract: Disasters like earthquakes are known as focusing events - sudden calamities that cause both citizens and policymakers to pay more attention to a public problem and often to press for solutions. This book, the first comprehensive analysis of these dramatic events, explains how and why some public disasters change political agendas and, ultimately, public policies. Thomas A. Birkland explores important successes and failures in the policy process by analyzing the political outcomes of four types of events: earthquakes, hurricanes, oil spills, and nuclear accidents. Using this empirical data to go beyond an intuitive understanding of focusing events, he presents a theory of where and when these events will gain attention and how they trigger political reactions. Birkland concludes that different types of disasters result in different kinds of agenda politics. Public outrage over the highly visible damage caused by the Exxon Valdez oil spill, for example, ended a fourteen-year logjam holding back Congressional legislation to regulate oil spill cleanups. On the other hand, the intangible effects of Three Mile Island had less concrete results in a political arena that was already highly polarized. Integrating a variety of theories on the policy process, including agenda setting, policy communities, advocacy coalitions, the political aspects of the news media, and the use of symbols in political debate, Birkland illuminates the dynamics of event-driven policy activity. As the first extensive study of its kind, this book offers new insights into the policy process.

Educational Policy and the Politics of Change

Abstract: Governments around the world are trying to come to terms with new technologies, new social movements and a changing global economy. As a result, educational policy finds itself at the centre of a major political struggle between those who see it only for its instrumental outcomes and those who see its potential for human emancipation. This book is a successor to the best-selling Understanding Schooling (1988). It provides a readable account of how educational policies are developed by the state in response to broader social, cultural, economic and political changes which are taking place. It examines the way in which schools live and work with these changes, and the policies which result from them. The book examines policy making at each level, from perspectives both inside and outside the state bureaucracy. It has a particular focus on social justice. Both undergraduate and postgraduate students will find that this book enables them to understand the reasoning behind the changes they are expected to implement. It will help to prepare them to confront an uncertain educational world, whilst still retaining their enthusiasm for education.

The Managerial State: Power, Politics and Ideology in the Remaking of Social Welfare

Abstract: Authors John Clarke and Janet Newman present an original analysis of the creation of new state forms that critically examines the political forces that enabled "more and better management" to be presented as a solution to the problems of the welfare state in Britain. Examining the micro-politics of change within public services, the authors draw links among politics, policies, and organizational power to present an incisive and dynamic account of the restructuring of social welfare. Clarke and Newman expose the tensions and contradictions in the managerial state and trace the emergence of new dilemmas in the provision of public services. They show that these problems are connected to the recurring difficulties in defining the "the public" that receives these services. In particular they question whether the reinvention of the public as either a nation of consumers or a nation of communities can effectively address the implications of social diversity. A cogent critique of the social, political, and organizational conflicts and instabilities that are embedded in new state forms, The Managerial State will be essential reading for students and academics in social policy, public policy, and public management. It will also be of interest to academics in sociology, politics, and organization studies.

Working, Shirking, and Sabotage: Bureaucratic Response to a Democratic Public

Abstract: Bureaucrats perform most of the tasks of government, profoundly influencing the daily lives of Americans. But who, or what, controls what bureaucrats do?John Brehm and Scott Gates examine who influences whether federal, state, and local bureaucrats work, shirk, or sabotage policy. The authors combine deductive models and computer simulations of bureaucratic behavior with statistical analysis in order to assess the competing influences over how bureaucrats expend their efforts. Drawing upon surveys, observational studies, and administrative records of the performance of public employees in a variety of settings, Brehm and Gates demonstrate that the reasons bureaucrats work as hard as they do include the nature of the jobs they are recruited to perform and the influence of both their fellow employees and their clients in the public. In contrast to the conclusions of principal-agency models, the authors show that the reasons bureaucrats work so hard have little to do with the coercive capacities of supervisors.This book is aimed at students of bureaucracy and organizations and will be of interest to researchers in political science, economics, public policy, and sociology."This book is breathtaking in its use of models and techniques. . . . The approach developed by Brehm and Gates allows us to re-open empirical questions that have lain dormant for years." --Bryan D. Jones, University of WashingtonJohn Brehm is Associate Professor of Political Science, Duke University. Scott Gates is Associate Professor of Political Science, Michigan State University.

Confronting AIDS : public priorities in a global epidemic

Abstract: This book argues that the global epidemic of HIV/AIDS can be overcome. It draws from three bodies of knowledge: the epidemiology of HIV, public health insights into disease control, and public economics. The report argues that AIDS is a large and growing problem and that governments can and should confront the epidemic by preventing new infections and by mitigating the impact of infections that occur. It finds that some policies will be much more effective than others in reducing the spread of HIV and mitigating its impact, and it provides the framework to help distinguish among activities that can be undertaken by household and the private sector, including nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), those that should be initiated by developing country governments, and those that should be most strongly supported by the international development community.

Political Economy of Modern Capitalism: Mapping Convergence and Diversity

Abstract: Modern capitalism, from neo-liberalism to deregulation, has come to dominate national and international political economy. This major book addresses this convergence and provides a comprehensive overview of the implications for future capitalist diversity. Leading international contributors consider important questions. Is the preference for free markets a well-founded response to intensified global competition? Does this mean that all advanced societies must converge on an imitation of the United States? What are the implications for the institutional diversity of the advanced economies? How do we now evaluate the systems and institutions in East Asia? Political Economy and Modern Capitalism provides a practical and wide-ranging analysis of the public policy choices facing governments and business around the world. It will be invaluable reading for students and researchers of political economy, comparative politics, political science, political sociology, public policy, and administration.

Africa's Growth Tragedy: Policies and Ethnic Divisions

Abstract: Explaining cross-country differences in growth rates requires not only an understanding of the link between growth and public policies, but also an understanding of why countries choose different public policies. This paper shows that ethnic diversity helps explain cross-country differences in public policies and other economic indicators. In the case of Sub-Saharan Africa, economic growth is associated with low schooling, political instability, underdeveloped financial systems, distorted foreign exchange markets, high government deficits, and insufficient infrastructure. Africa's high ethnic fragmentation explains a significant part of most of these characteristics.

Strategic Issues Management: Organizations and Public Policy Challenges

Abstract: A Foundation of Community Issues Management as an Organizational and Academic Discipline A Search for Order Arguments over Public Policy Scouting the Terrain Strategic Planning Based on Scanning, Monitoring and Analysis Corporate Responsibility Getting the House in Order Special Interest Activities as Foes or Allies Issue Communication Argument Structures and Zones of Meaning Legislative, Judicial and Regulatory Constraints on Issue Communication Media Technologies - New and Old - as Communication Infrastructures Issues Management and Crisis Communication Preparing for the Worst Issues Management and Risk Communication Balancing Public Well-Being with Technology Conclusion Issues Management 2000

Global Social Policy: International Organizations and the Future of Welfare

Abstract: Globalism and the Study of Social Policy The State of the World's Welfare The Social Policy of Global Actors International Organizations and the Making of Post-Communist Social Policy Non-Governmental Organizations and Global Social Policy in Conditions of Conflict The Prospects for Global Social Policy

Dealing with Cynical Citizens

Abstract: Widespread concern exists about public cynicism toward government (Gore, 1994; Dubnick and Rosenbloom, 1995; Greider, 1992; Lipset and Schneider, 1987; Ruscio, 1995; Cisneros and Parr, 1990). Manifestations of public cynicism include pervasive beliefs that government policies and public officials are corrupt, inept, or out to take advantage of citizens (Johnson, 1993). Such disillusionment causes alienation and disengagement and is therefore of key interest to public administration and processes of democratic governance. Yet, little is written about the role of public administrators in shaping public attitudes. Much of what is written focuses on typologies of citizen roles (Frederickson, 1991; Luton, 1993) and administrative processes for managing citizen involvement (Stivers, 1994; Thomas, 1993; Box, 1992). This article responds to the need for a theory of citizen cynicism that is relevant to public administration. It also reports on the results of a national survey among city managers and chief administrative officers about perceptions of trust in local government. It finds that cities that foster positive citizen attitudes through a variety of strategies of participation, information, and reputation experience less cynicism than cities that do not. The effect of community conditions on trust is also examined. A Theory of Cynicism Cynicism is discussed in general terms in the literatures of trust and social capital. Many authors argue that all human relations and exchanges (economic, political, and social) require trust that promises will be honored, and that individuals are not taken advantage of (Coleman, 1990; Putnam, 1993; Bellah, et al., 1991; Mansbridge, 1990). Trust is seen as purposive, a lubricant of relations. It also provides a sense of belonging that serves the emotional needs of individuals. Cynicism is defined as low trust, specifically, a pervasive "disbelief in the possibility of good" in dealing with others (Damon, 1995; Barber, 1983; Merton, 1957). Cynicism increases social distance and diminishes the public spirit (Gore, 1994). "Social capital" refers to the number of trusting and mutually supportive relationships that members of a group draw on in realizing their economic, social, and political aims (Loury, 1987). Individuals in groups with low levels of social capital often have too few interdependent relations to achieve their goals and are likely to experience disenfranchisement. Disappointment over unrealized goals contributes to cynical attitudes, which, in turn serve as barriers to forming productive relations, thus causing social capital to further erode in a vicious circle. Cynical attitudes toward government often center on the integrity, purpose, and effectiveness of government and its officials (Starobin, 1995; Durant, 1995; O'Connell, Holzman, and Armandi, 1986; Jurie, 1988). The literature makes a distinction between ardent cynicism and milder forms. Ardent cynicism is usually linked to ideological beliefs that are highly critical of government, for example, "government is always out to get the ordinary citizen." Facts are used selectively to justify claims that "nothing ever changes" and that authorities use smoke and mirrors to appease and mislead the masses. Milder expressions of cynicism are often characterized by beliefs that are less critical of government (e.g., "government tries its best, but it just doesn't have the resources"), and by beliefs that give greater weight to facts (e.g., "government doesn't deliver on its promises: the roads are still not fixed"). Because of the greater dependence on facts, the milder form of cynicism may be more open to influence by reason.(1) Theories of human motivation and behavior adapted from organizational behavior (McClelland, 1985; Bianco, 1994; Robertson and Tang, 1995) suggest that citizens question their relationship with government and experience disenfranchisement when the following conditions are present: (1) citizens believe that local government is using its power against them or otherwise not helping them; (2) citizens do not feel part of local government, or they feel misunderstood or ignored, and (3) citizens find local government services and policies to be ineffective. …

Regional trading blocs in the world economic system

Abstract: The rapid growth of regional trading relationships in Europe, Asia, and Latin America has raised policy concerns about their impact on excluded countries and on the global trading system. Some observers worry that the multilateral system may be fracturing into discriminatory regional blocs. Others are hopeful that regional agreements will go beyond what was achieved in the Uruguay Round and instead become building blocks for further global liberalization and WTO rules in new areas. Jeffrey Frankel shows through extensive empirical analysis that the new breed of preferential trade arrangements are indeed concentrating trade regionally. He then assesses whether regional blocs are "natural" or "supernatural"--that is, whether they enhance or reduce global welfare. He concludes that a move to complete liberalization within blocs, with no reduction in barriers between blocs, would push the trading system into the supernatural zone of an excessive degree of regionalization. More balanced patterns of liberalization, however, give favorable outcomes. He considers regionalism at two levels: both the formal trading arrangements that are already in effect, and the broader continent-sized groupings that are under discussion (the Americas, Europe, and the Asia Pacific). Frankel's study also assesses the political and economic dimensions of regionalization and its implications for world economic prospects and public policy. In conclusion, Frankel proposes several policy prescriptions for pursuing partial regional liberalization among blocs as a stepping stone toward global free trade.

Valuing the Effect of Regulation on New Services in Telecommunications

Abstract: THIS PAPER DEALS with how to value the introduction of new services in telecommunications. Much public discussion has centered on the evolving "information superhighway" as well as on the many new services that may be offered as high-capacity fiber optic transmission networks are extended into the telecommunications infrastructure. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has decided to tax longdistance users to subsidize Internet access to schools and libraries. The cost is estimated to exceed $2 billion a year. Numerous cable companies, such as Time Warner, have announced plans to upgrade their current coaxial-based networks to combined fiber-coax networks. This increased transmission capacity will allow many more channels of entertainment, high-speed access to information, and new interactive services. How can society establish the value of these new services and increased choices? This question has potentially important economic consequences and equally important public policy implications. Because of the network structure of telecommunications, public policy has always played a large role in its production and regulation. In countries such as the United States and Canada, very strict regulation (which is only slowly being loosened) has limited the ability of companies to compete freely in telecommunications. By demonstrating how to value new telecommunications services, I allow for a more reasoned approach to the necessary benefit-cost calculations; this approach can help both

Faculty Work and Public Trust: Restoring the Value of Teaching and Public Service in American Academic Life

Abstract: (1997). Faculty Work and Public Trust: Restoring the Value of Teaching and Public Service in American Academic Life. The Journal of Higher Education: Vol. 68, No. 2, pp. 233-234.

The Invention of Regions: Political Restructuring and Territorial Government in Western Europe

Abstract: Regionalism has come back to prominence, as the political, economic, cultural, and social meaning of space is changing in contemporary Europe. In some ways, politics, economics, and public policies are deterritorializing; but at the same time and in other ways, there is a reterritorialization of economic, political, and governmental activity. The ‘new regionalism’ is the product of this decomposition and recomposition of the territorial framework of public life, consequent on changes in the state, the market, and the international context. Functional needs, institutional restructuring, and political mobilization all play a role. Regionalism must now be placed in the context of the international market and the European Union, as well as the nation-state.

Global Challenges: An Approach to Environmental, Political, and Economic Problems

Abstract: Using simple economic reasoning, this book analyses a broad range of global challenges including global warming, ozone shield depletion, acid rain, nuclear waste disposal, revolution dispersion, international terrorism, disease eradication, population growth, tropical deforestation, and peacemaking. These challenges are put into perspective in terms of scientific, economic, and political considerations. Many of these contingencies are shown to be solvable without much explicit coordination among nations. Although there is no panacea to these challenges, much can be done to tailor solutions. This book is intended for a wide audience drawn from the social sciences, including economics, environmental studies, political science, sociology, and public policy. It should also interest the general reader who wants to learn about global challenges.

Putting Civil Rights to a Popular Vote

Abstract: Theory: Democratic theory and theories of public policy frame the concern for the rights of minorities in the face of majority opposition. Hypotheses: Without the filtering mechanisms of the representative system, direct democracy promotes majority tyranny as the scope of civil rights conflicts expands and citizens vote on civil rights laws. Methods: The paper analyzes over three decades of initiatives and popular referenda from five major civil rights areas: housing and public accommodations for racial minorities, school desegregation, gay rights, English language laws, and AIDS policies. Results: Citizen initiatives that restrict civil rights experience extraordinary electoral success: voters have approved over three-quarters of these, while endorsing only a third of all initiatives and popular referenda.

Explaining Agricultural and Agrarian Policies in Developing Countries

Abstract: The paper describes and, as far as possible, explains variations in policies, programs, and institutions that influence agricultural growth, agrarian relations, and rural welfare across developing countries and over time. It evaluates the impact of distorted policy patterns on agricultural production and rural poverty and identifies conditions under which policy reforms meant to bring about greater efficiency and equity are likely to be initiated and sustained. It draws upon a broad range of literature to show how material conditions, missing markets, and government policies affect static welfare outcomes, patterns of accumulation, state formation, and the establishment of political institutions. It suggests ways to improve policy advice and proposes directions for future research.

Technological Systems and Industrial Dynamics

Abstract: Preface B. Carlsson. List of Contributors. List of Tables. List of Figures.1. Introduction B. Carlsson. 2. Sweden's Technological Profile S. Jacobsson, J. Philipson. 3. The Technological System for Factory Automation B. Carlsson, S. Jacobsson. 4. Sweden's Technological System for Electronics and Computer Technology S. Jacobsson. 5. The Development of Beta Blockers at Astra-Hassle and the Technological System of the Swedish Pharmaceutical Industry R. Stankiewicz. 6. The Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological Competence Bloc and the Development of Losec G. Eliasson, A. Eliasson. 7. Mapping the Cognitive and Institutional Structures of an Evolving Advanced-Materials Field: The Case of Powder Technology A. Granberg. 8. General Purpose Technologies, Industrial Competence and Economic Growth - With Emphasis on the Diffusion of Advanced Methods of Integrated Production G. Eliasson. 9. Micro-Macro Simulation of Technological Systems: Economic Effects of Spillovers B. Carlsson, et al. 10. Four Technological Systems: What Have We Learned? B. Carlsson. 11. In Search of Useful Public Policies: Key Lessons and Issues for Policy Makers B. Carlsson, S. Jacobsson. Author Index. Subject Index.

NONGOVERNMENTS: NGOs and the Political Development of the Third World

Abstract: Provides a complete overview of the composition and types of NGOs that have emerged in recent years, describing the influence these organizations have had on political systems throughout the world and analyzing their role in sustainable development. Examines issues including government policies towa