The new policy sciences: combining the cognitive science of choice, multiple theories of context, and basic and applied analysis

Citation

Cairney P & Weible C (2017) The new policy sciences: combining the cognitive science of choice, multiple theories of context, and basic and applied analysis. Policy Sciences, 50 (4), pp. 619-627. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11077-017-9304-2

Abstract
It is time to imagine a new policy sciences. The policymaking world has moved on since its first design. So too has our understanding of it. The original policy sciences were contextualized, problem-oriented, multi-method, and focused on using scientific research towards the realization of greater human dignity. We introduce a new policy sciences that builds on such aims. We describe the need for realistic depictions of ‘rational’ and ‘irrational’ choice, multiple theories to portray the multifaceted nature of complex contexts, and the combination of applied and basic research. To set this new agenda, we build on two foundational strategies: identifying advances in the psychology of decision-making and describing how policy theories depict policymaking psychology in complex contexts.

Keywords
Bounded rationality; Complexity; Policy sciences; Policy process; Policy analysis; Public policy

Journal
Policy Sciences: Volume 50, Issue 4

People

Professor Paul Cairney

Professor, Politics