Tempest in a teapot? Toward new collaborations between mainstream policy process studies and interpretive policy...

Area of Science:

• Public Policy and Administration
• Social Sciences

Background:

• The relationship between mainstream policy process studies and interpretive policy studies is often perceived as divisive.
• This commentary challenges the notion of a significant divide, framing it as a "tempest in a teapot."

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare and contrast mainstream and interpretive policy studies regarding their views on public policy and policy processes.
• To explore differences in theoretical approaches and research methodologies.
• To propose strategies for enhanced collaboration between these two research traditions.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of two distinct policy research traditions.
• Exploration of theoretical frameworks and research techniques.
• Identification of common ground and areas for productive dialogue.

Main Results:

• The perceived division between mainstream and interpretive policy studies may be overstated.
• Both traditions offer valuable, albeit different, perspectives on public policy.
• Key areas for comparison include conceptualizations of policy, theoretical underpinnings, and methodological choices.

Conclusions:

• Productive collaboration between mainstream and interpretive policy studies is achievable.
• Strategies such as side-by-side research, integrative research, and constructive dialogue can bridge perceived divides.
• Fostering collaboration can lead to more comprehensive and robust public policy analysis.