Assignment 2 - Shulock and Hird

Shulock Article:


a) Briefly describe the two views of policy-making that Shulock outlines in her article.

Shulock outlines the Traditional and Interpretive/Alternative views of policy analysis.  The Traditional view holds that policy analysis is a tool for choosing among alternatives in an effort to solve problems. The interpretive/alternative view holds that policy analysis is used to engage the public and promote participation. Policy analysis is but one part of the policy-making process.

b) In your opinion, which of these views of policy-making is most accurate? Why?

I agree with Shulock’s findings and opinions regarding the alternative view. Policy analysis is a part of the process, creating a discourse for discussion. Those with the power of decision making do not choose from a set of alternatives provided to them by policy analysts, but instead use the information to help inform their decisions, using it in concert with a wide variety of other types of information resources.

c) Post a link to a newspaper article that demonstrates an example of policy-making that supports your opinions expressed in part (b) above. Briefly explain why this supports your views from part (b).

Are Genetically-Modified Salmon Safe to Eat?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to make a decision on whether or not to allow the sale of genetically-modified salmon to be sold. The alternative view is supported because the FDA is looking at a number of groups and statistics to help inform its decision. Policy analysis for different interest groups is just part of the information being used by the agency; public opinion and health-related effects are also being considered in the FDA's decision of whether or not to allow the salmon. The policy analysis assists citizens and agencies to become more informed and raises the level of debate on the topic.

Hird Article:

a) What does Hird conclude about the use of policy analysis in decision-making?

Hird concludes that policy analysis from nonpartisan policy analysis organizations (NPROs) is an important source of information for legislators. That being said, it is not considered the overwhelming influencer of policy-related decision-making. The influence of policy analysis from NPROs is dependent upon the size of the NPRO. They can be used as information resources, regardless of size.

b)  Are you convinced by his research and his argument? Why or Why not?

I was convinced by Hird’s argument. State legislators have many influences with which to make their decisions. Policy analysis by NPROs is only one of many tools legislators have to make their decisions. Hird finds states without NPROs still use policy analysis to aide their decision-making process, showing that it is not necessary for policy selection. Hird and Shulock both find that policy analysis is used more as a tool to inform decision-making than it is to dictate decisions.