Part 1: Gilbert & Terrell, Policy Analysis Framework, Chapter 3

Summary

This video introduces the concept of policy analysis, focusing on three main approaches referred to as the 'three P’s': process, product, and performance. It explains how policy creation, decisions, and their impacts are analyzed, using the Gilbert and Terrell framework. Key concepts such as the basis of social allocations, the nature of social provisions, and the delivery system are discussed, along with the importance of understanding values, theories, and assumptions behind policy choices. Additionally, the video touches on the significance of policy evaluation, addressing social values, theories, and the underlying assumptions that guide the creation and implementation of policies.

Takeaways

• 😀 The script discusses three main approaches to policy analysis: Process, Product, and Performance analysis.
• 😀 Process analysis focuses on understanding the creation of policies, considering political, historical, and social contexts.
• 😀 Product analysis examines decisions regarding social allocations, benefits, delivery systems, and financing of policies.
• 😀 Performance analysis evaluates the success and effectiveness of policies by assessing their impact and implementation.
• 😀 Social welfare policies often reflect differing views on social values, like equality, equity, and adequacy.
• 😀 Theories about the causes of social problems play a significant role in shaping the design of policies, leading to different approaches like residual or universal policies.
• 😀 Residual policies are typically selective, temporary, and respond to crises, such as unemployment insurance.
• 😀 Universal policies are intended to be always available to everyone, often addressing broad social issues like public health or welfare.
• 😀 Assumptions about beneficiaries influence policy design, such as whether people are viewed as deserving or undeserving of assistance.
• 😀 Policies designed with a view of people as 'deserving' are more likely to be universal and long-term in nature.
• 😀 Residual policies often target specific groups facing temporary or crisis situations, reflecting societal beliefs about individual responsibility.

Q & A

What are the three approaches to policy analysis mentioned in the transcript?

The three approaches to policy analysis are process analysis, product analysis, and performance analysis. These approaches focus on understanding how a policy was created, analyzing the choices made in the policy, and evaluating the outcomes of the policy, respectively.

What does process analysis in policy analysis focus on?

Process analysis focuses on understanding the process of how a policy was created, including social, political, and historical factors. It looks at the interactions among political, governmental, and interest groups and how these affect decision-making.

What is the focus of product analysis in policy analysis?

Product analysis focuses on analyzing the choices made regarding the components of a policy, such as who will benefit, the type of provisions, the delivery system, and the financing model. It also looks at the values, theories, and assumptions underlying these choices.

How is performance analysis different from process and product analysis?

Performance analysis is concerned with evaluating the outcomes of a policy, asking questions about how well the programs were implemented, the impact of the policies, and whether the policy achieved its goals. It involves data collection to assess efficiency, effects, and effectiveness.

What is the significance of the four choices in Gilbert and Terrell's policy framework?

The four choices—basis of social allocations, nature of social provisions, delivery system, and mode of finance—are critical for understanding how a policy is designed. They represent key decisions in policy development and have lasting impacts on the effectiveness and accessibility of the policy.

What are the core values considered in the policy analysis framework?

The core values considered are equality, equity, and adequacy. These values guide decisions about who should benefit from policies, what benefits they should receive, and whether those benefits meet a decent standard of well-being.

How does the concept of equality differ from equity in policy analysis?

Equality refers to treating everyone the same, ensuring each person receives an equal share. Equity, on the other hand, involves proportional fairness, where people receive benefits based on what they deserve or need, which might not always be equal treatment.

What is the difference between residual and universal policies?

Residual policies are temporary and selective, only addressing crises or specific needs. They are based on the belief that individuals or families are responsible for their situations. Universal policies, however, are always available and apply to everyone, aiming to address broader societal issues like economic downturns.

How do theories and assumptions about the causes of problems influence policy design?

Theories and assumptions about the causes of problems influence whether a policy is designed as residual or universal. If a problem is seen as an individual failure, a residual policy is likely, while if it's seen as a societal issue, a universal policy is more probable.

What role does social control versus freedom of choice play in policy decisions?

Social control limits the choices of beneficiaries, offering only what is provided, whereas freedom of choice gives individuals the ability to choose how to use the benefits they receive. This reflects the policy’s belief in whether beneficiaries can make good choices for themselves.