Theories of Policy Change

Abstract

In this chapter we outline the value of a framework based on political science theories. In particular, we promote the use of multiple theories as a means to consider different perspectives and to highlight complementary sources of evidence. However, our approach immediately throws up two problems. First, there are at least three ways to apply multiple theories when engaging in empirical research: produce a hybrid model synthesising the most valuable aspects of each theory; use each theory independently to highlight different aspects of the policy process; or establish the extent to which these theories are contradictory and engage in a ‘policy shootout’ (Eller and Krutz, 2009) to determine the best approach (Cairney, 2012: 266). Second, a full analysis and application of each theory is beyond the scope of one book, particularly one that presents so much empirical data on a global scale. Therefore, we must find a way to derive insights from a range of theories under a single, more manageable, research framework.