Magical Thinking in Public Policy

Magical Thinking in Public Policy

EnglishEbook
Boswell, John
OUP Oxford
EAN: 9780192665027
Available online
CZK 2,077
Common price CZK 2,308
Discount 10%
pc

Detailed information

This book explores why naive ideals about better policymaking persist even in cynical times, revealing the careful reflection at the heart of what appears to be 'magical thinking' in public policy. Contemporary policy scholarship tends to be cynical about movements to reform policymaking by making it more rational or more democratic. Scholars point to the pathologies and vagaries of realpolitik that render ideals such as evidence-based policymaking, long-term prevention, collaboration, transparency, and citizen engagement unattainable. Increasingly, many go further to warn about the democratic dangers of pursuing these foolhardy goals. The fact is, however, that scholarly objections about political obstacles and practical constraints are not news to policy actors themselves - they are acutely aware of the challenges of policy work amid uncertainty, complexity and contestation. They privately express doubt, frustration, and cynicism, but they continue to support, promote, and work towards these key aspirations in practice. Through rich case studies and wide-ranging theoretical discussion, John Boswell offers novel insights into the continuing appeal of seemingly naive ideals. In particular, he shows how turning to these ideals helps actors to reconcile and resolve key dilemmas and challenges in their everyday work. Ultimately, the book offers a nuanced and spirited defence of the value of clinging on to seemingly naive ideals for better policymaking, even in the face of inevitable failures and disappointments.
EAN 9780192665027
ISBN 0192665022
Binding Ebook
Publisher OUP Oxford
Publication date December 16, 2022
Pages 304
Language English
Country United Kingdom
Authors Boswell, John