Facts, Values and the Policy World

by Phil Ryan

Overview

Many policy analysts – and citizens interested in public issues – believe that rigorous thought should be uncontaminated by values, which are merely subjective. Policy analysis, however, is about what is worth doing and therefore inherently values based.

This accessible book reveals the damage that this contradiction inflicts on policy analysis and society. It also demonstrates the real-world failings of various influential alternatives to the ‘value-free’ ideal. By showing that values are amenable to critical analysis, this book provides a solid foundation for a comprehensive approach that reimagines the scope and role of policy analysis in contemporary society.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781447364566
Publisher:	Policy Press
Publication date:	03/22/2022
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	176
File size:	1 MB

About the Author

Phil Ryan is Associate Professor in the School of Public Policy and Administration at Carleton University. He is the author of 'After the New Atheist Debate' (2014) and 'Multicultiphobia' (2010).
Phil Ryan is Associate Professor at Carleton University’s School of Public Policy and Administration. He is the author of 'After the New Atheist Debate' (2014) and 'Multicultiphobia' (2010).

Table of Contents

Introduction

PART I The binary view: effects and durability

1. Some effects of the binary view

2. The quest for exogenous values

3. The durable fl otsam of the binary view

4. Convenient belief

PART II Non- binary analysis

5. Forms of care

6. Networks of belief

7. Networks of beliefs and practices

8. Decision contexts

9. The analyst in context

PART III Caveats

10. Experts and expertise

11. The limits of dialogue

Conclusion

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“Phil Ryan makes a strong case for rejecting the common view that values are beyond reason and that policy analysts should abstain from making judgements of value in their work.” Andrew Sayer, Lancaster University

“An important, persuasive and much-needed challenge to a long-standing and deeply entrenched orthodoxy in policy analysis. I enthusiastically recommend it to all who teach in this field.” Maurice L. Wade, Trinity College

”This riveting read offers a ‘dialogical way’ through the tangles of the fact/value dichotomy that often leaves policy makers and analysts powerless in the face of disagreement.” Susan T. Gardner, Capilano University