An Introduction to the Policy Process Theories, Concepts, and Models of Public Policymaking

1. Introducing the Policy Process

2. Philosophical Foundations of Politics and the Policy Process

3. The Constitutional Order and the Policy Process

4. Elements of the Policymaking System

5. Official Actors and Their Roles in Public Policy

6. Unofficial Actors and Their Roles in Public Policy

7. Agenda Setting, Groups, and Power

8. Policies and Policy Types

9. Decision-Making and Policy Analysis

10. Policy Design and Policy Tools

11. Policy Implementation, Failure, and Learning

12. Contemporary Theories of the Policy Process

Biography

Thomas A. Birkland is a Professor of Public Policy at North Carolina State University, USA. He has taught courses on disaster policy and environmental policy, as well as on the policy process, to all levels of students. He was born in Seattle and grew up in Anchorage, Alaska, and has degrees from the University of Oregon, Rutgers University, and the University of Washington. His research has examined policy theory, agenda setting, and the role of sudden events, such as disasters, in the policy process. He has written two books and many articles about disaster policy, the policy process, and agenda setting. His 1997 book After Disaster won the Aaron Wildavsky Enduring Contribution Award from the Public Policy section of the American Political Science Association in 2020.

"As ever, Birkland brings the policy process to life with precision, clarity, and the kind of intellectual generosity students feel on every page. This edition sharpens the tools, updates the debates, and reaffirms why this book has become the field's trusted compass."

Michael D. Jones, Clemson University, USA 

“Birkland's An Introduction to the Policy Process is my go-to textbook for teaching about the policy process. It has a strong foundation in the academic research on policy process and policy design but is presented in a format that is digestible to undergraduate and graduate students. The sixth edition continues to be an indispensable resource.”

Daniel J. Mallinson, Penn State Harrisburg

“The sixth edition of An Introduction to the Policy Process remains the premier textbook for students of public policy and policy process theory in particular. This latest edition is both comprehensive and remarkably accessible, offering a rich array of examples that illuminate complex theoretical concepts with clarity. An Introduction to the Policy Process is an essential read for undergraduate and graduate students alike.”

Rob A. DeLeo, Professor of Public Policy, Bentley University

“Birkland’s latest edition – of what should rightfully be considered an iconic textbook – remains the premier source for introducing policy processes from a U.S. perspective. This updated edition thoughtfully incorporates the latest developments in American democracy and politics, providing students and scholars with the essential tools to understand a rapidly evolving policy landscape.” 

Christopher M. Weible, University of Colorado Denver

“Thomas Birkland’s sixth edition continues his excellent work of explaining the policy process within the context of the American political system that will engage students across a variety of disciplines. His balance between theory and practice helps the reader see the impact of the policy process in their daily lives.”

Bob Choquette, Teaching Professor, School of Planning, Public Policy and Management, University of Oregon

“Across his career, Thomas Birkland has prepared thousands of aspiring scholars and practitioners to engage the complex challenges of American policymaking. In this updated edition of his classic text, he shows yet again why his ideas deserve everyone's attention.”

Paul Manna, Hyman Professor of Government, William & Mary

“The sixth edition of An Introduction to the Policy Process is a well-written textbook that provides a clear and insightful introduction to the political processes that shape public policies. Birkland’s wide-ranging book is an excellent resource for instructors and students interested in policy studies.”

George Busenberg, Soka University of America, USA