Chapter 4 Policy Analysis Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards defining key concepts in policy analysis and decision-making models from Chapter 4.

Problem

An unsatisfactory set of conditions for which relief is sought, either privately or through government.

Rational Decision-Making

A problem-solving model that defines the problem, identifies goals, considers alternatives, evaluates consequences, and selects the strongest option.

Rational-Comprehensive Approach

A demanding form of analysis that attempts to consider nearly all relevant options, effects, and consequences.

Incremental Decision-Making

A more limited approach that makes modest or gradual changes rather than attempting a fully comprehensive solution.

Assessing Alternatives

Judging policy options against relevant criteria, expected consequences, trade-offs, and uncertainty.

Root Causes

Underlying or fundamental causes of a public problem that may be difficult to change but are important for deep analysis.

Proximate Causes

Immediate or more direct causes of a public problem that may be more feasible targets for policy action.

Democratic Political Processes

Citizen, political, and institutional processes through which public values and democratic choice shape policy decisions.