Define public policy. Describe why the subject matter of public policy has become increasingly complicated

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Public policy is the sum of government activities, whether pursued directly or through agents, as those activities have an influence on the lives of citizens. Government institutions are more numerous and more complex in their organization. The subject matter of policy is more complex and technical. Increasing requirements for participation and accountability make managing a public program difficult. The United States is a federal system in which large numbers of subnational governments share in policy decision-making. Differing levels of government often experience conflicts over policy. Even within the federal government, the actions of one agency may conflict with those of another. Not all government policies are implemented by government employees; even when government implements a program directly, it may not act through its own employees. Policy efforts are concentrated on the effects of government choices on the lives of individuals within society. Any numbers of steps are required to turn legislation into a program, and frequently, significant changes in the intended effects of the program result from difficulties in translating ideas and intentions into action. Policies emerge from a large number of programs, legislative intentions, and organizational interactions that affect the daily lives of citizens.