American Public Policy: Promise and Performance

Now in its eighth edition, B. Guy Peters’s trusted text once again provides a meticulous overview of the process behind―and the current state of― American public policy. In addition to balanced and comprehensive coverage of governmental structures and policymaking procedures, Peters addresses an array of specific policy issues as well as cost-benefit and ethical analysis.

Brief "background" sections now start each issues chapter, providing readers with additional context before they dive into current problems and policies. In addition to an in-depth look at economic policy in light of the current financial turmoil and recession, this revision includes valuable new material on the politics of international treaties and climate control and devotes further attention to foreign policy. In a brand new chapter Peters accessibly explains approaches to the policymaking process, including institutional, economic, constructivist, and stages models, along with concepts such as the advocacy coalition framework, bounded rationality, and incrementalism. Updated graphics, tables, and charts throughout ensure that students have access to the latest data in the field, while new photos illustrate important points.

B. Guy Peters is Maurice Falk Professor of American Government at the University of Pittsburgh. He has written extensively in the areas of public administration and public policy, both for the United States and comparatively. Among his recent publications are the Handbook of Public Administration and The Quest for Control: Politicization of the Public Service.