Definition of Public Policy

Thomas R. Dye

Public policy is “whatever governments choose to do or not to do.” This emphasizes that policy includes both action and inaction by governments.

James E. Anderson (1975)

Public policy is a “purposive course of action followed by an actor or set of actors in dealing with a problem or matter of concern.” This stresses intentionality and goal orientation.

Gerald C. Wright, Robert S. Lineberry & Robert L. Peabody

Public policy is “a course of action or inaction chosen by public authorities to address a given problem or interrelated set of problems.”

Wayne Parsons

Public policy is “a course of action adopted and implemented by a governmental body or agency to address an issue.” This highlights the procedural and implementation aspects.

David Easton (1950s)

Public policy is “the authoritative allocation of values for a society,” indicating how governments distribute values like equity, security, and justice.

B. Guy Peters

Public policy is “the sum of government activities, whether acting directly or through agents, as it influences the life of citizens.” This definition underscores the comprehensive impact of policy.

Clark Cochran, et al.

Public policy is “the outcome of the struggle in government over who gets what.” This reflects the political negotiation inherent in policymaking.

Types of Policy