Customer Reviews

Evaluating Public Policy

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Frank Fischer's Evaluating Public Policy is a very well researched book that guides the reader through some very difficult concepts very gracefully. Fischer hopes to spell out a comprehensive guide to establishing effective public policy. Unfortunately, in this type of complicated subject, even a seemingly simplistic outline of this process can create difficulties. Fischer understands these problems but does not let them interfere with his methodical explanation and evaluation of a number of policies. He attempts to establish a never fail plan for evaluating various policies. Unfortunately, he undermines any simplicity through his discussion of complicated examples. But the book is a worthwhile read because of these examples that Fischer uses. He never gives a hypothetical situation. Rather, he illustrates all of his concepts with real examples in legislation. This makes the book flow smoothly as story-telling is always a good mix with theorizing. Also, the reader leaves with a solid understanding of policies such as the revitalization of Times Square the Head Start Program. Do not read this book to gain a solid understanding of how to evaluate public policy. Read it instead to understand the dilemmas faced by those who engage in public policy making.

This book was the instrumental framework for my dissertation. I read it four years before I began my research and immediately went to this source when I framed the study. It is written in clear, concise language with outstanding examples throughout. Fischer's all encompassing theoretical view cuts through the heirarchical gobbledygook that accompanies most organizations, providing an excellent tool in which to measure the policy implementation process. This book will always be in my library.