GOVT8005 Ideas and Perspectives in Contemporary Public Policy

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Overview

The practice of public policy - the policy ideas, the governance modalities, the programs and interventions – they are all underpinned by assumptions. These assumptions are fundamental. They shape our understanding of the world we live in, the nature of human beings and the subsequent theories of how we can bring about change in the public realm. In fact, all public policy interventions are laden with value judgements and theoretical explanations for why things are the way they are, what needs to change and how change can be brought about. In this topic we are going to explore the practice of public policy and identify the ideas and perspectives that inform this practice. This topic will help students analyse and make sense of the public policy arena in a way that takes account of the origins of ideas. In this way we will shine a light on why we do what we do in public policy and how critical engagement with assumptions provides the seeds for public policy innovation.

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Aims

This topic aims to equip students with a critical understanding of the ideas, political thought and perspectives that underpin the practice of public policy. In doing so, students will better understand the assumptions embedded in the way things are done and therefore open up space for students to think more creativity about what can be done in the future.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:

Evaluate the political assumptions embedded in the practice of public policy

Critically appraise the assumptions that underpin contemporary public policy practice

Evaluate and propose different lenses for innovation in the practice of public policy

Derive the practical implications for practice from the theoretical perspectives

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Requisites information

Anti-requisites:

Handbook

Ideas and Perspectives in Contemporary Public Policy

GOVT8005