Learning From Comparative Public Policy

Step 2

Creating awareness of problems

Public problems are not just out there waiting to be dealt with. Policymaking is not simply problem-solving. It is also a matter of setting up and defining problems in the first place.

Charles Anderson, ‘The Logic of Public Problems’

Politicians like to be associated with success. As long as almost everyone concerned with a programme is satisfied, the diagnosis is simple: no problem. In such circumstances there is no need to think about changing the programme and even less to seek lessons from abroad. A programme does not have to be internationally outstanding to produce contentment; it is sufficient for it to be considered ‘good enough’.

Policymakers tend to judge the future by the past. The government ...