Introduction to Public Policy

Instructor Information

Dr. Jose Marichal
Contact: marichal@callutheran.edu
Office Hours: 2:05pm to 4:05pm MW
Office: Swenson 228

Course Goals

This course is about how societies make collective decisions about what constitutes "the good life." All of us have things we care deeply about, aspirations and dreams, but we can't achieve these things on our own. We live in a society with others and through the political process, we make decisions every day that affect people's ability to live their version of "the good life." This will focus upon two things. First, it is about developing your view of "the good life" - i.e. what are your dreams and aspirations for yourself and for the world and (2) how we make collective decisions that prefer one view of "the good life" over another. In this course we will look at: Who makes collective decisions? What criteria do they use to arrive at decisions? How do people promote preferred solutions? Why are obvious problems not addressed? This class will engage you in the process of public decision making. You will be asked to think about your own personal goals and how they connect to the society you live in. You will look at the policy process surrounding your goals and how to go about changing that process if it produces unwanted results. In addition, you will be asked to reflect upon the question of whether you have the ability and opportunity to engage in the decision making process. Throughout the course, we will work towards developing policy solutions that will affect the things you hope to achieve in life.

Course Assignments

Any aspect of this syllabus can be changed by the instructor at his discretion. Readings for the day need to be completed prior to class times, as class activities, discussions, and quizzes will primarily draw upon assigned readings.

Assignments Summary

• Legislative Subcommittee Presentation = 20 points
• Class Participation = 10 points
• Exams – 20 points X 2 exams = 40 points
• Legislation Assignment = 30 points

Course Readings

• Stone, D. Policy Paradox. WW Norton Press.
• All Other Readings Accessible On-Line.

Course Schedule

Week 1: Introduction

Week 2: Value Conflicts

Week 3: Efficiency and Welfare

Week 4: Welfare and Liberty

Week 5: Framing

Week 6: Symbols and Persuasion

Week 7: Uses of Data

Week 8: Causal Stories

Week 9: Coalition Building

Week 10: Policy Opportunities

Week 11: Inducements

Week 12: Rules

Week 13: Facts and Rights

Week 14: Rights and Powers