Introduction: Political Policy Analysis

This introductory chapter outlines the purpose, content, intended audience, and distinctive emphases of this practical introduction to policy analysis. It examines gaps between theory and practice, and challenges rational-technocratic approaches to policy analysis, framing policy-making in a democracy as incremental social problem-solving that is political all the way through. The task of a policy analyst is to support and facilitate democracy as government by discussion, as elected and appointed officials work together to identify and agree on solutions that are practically and politically implementable. Public policy-making goes best when it aspires to be reasonable rather than rational, evidence-informed rather than evidence-based, evolutionary rather than revolutionary. Durable public policy is modest and realistic, characterised by respect for the past, responsibility in the present, and anticipation of future challenges and opportunities.