Politics of the Policyscape

Synonyms

Policy regime; Policy state

Definition

A political landscape in which policies created in the past become durable institutions that shape the future politics of policymakers, organized interests, and citizens

Introduction

Creating public policy is one of the primary ways in which the state carries out the task of governing. It is, therefore, unsurprising that a great deal of attention has been paid to understanding how different political factors shape the public policies that are passed at a particular time and in a particular place. But public policies are not simply a product of politics. Once enacted, public policies – especially those that become enduring features of the political landscape – also have the ability to reshape future politics in important ways. Policies can influence the agendas and actions of both individual lawmakers and political parties. Policies can create or dismantle government agencies, commissions, and departments. Policies can affect the resources...