Myths and the Definition of Policy Problems: An Exploration of Home Ownership and Public-Private Partnerships

In: Policy sciences: integrating knowledge and practice to advance human dignity ; the journal of the Society of Policy Scientists, Band 20, Heft 3, S. 181-206

Abstract

A discussion of widely accepted myths used to link public issues to shared moral evaluations of conditions, events, & possible solutions to problems. These myths can mediate SE change by allowing new policies to carry familiar meanings. But, they can also conceal crucial contradictions & facts, legitimize policies that benefit the powerful, & support anachronistic perceptions of policy problems. Two case examples from US domestic policy are presented to illustrate these concepts: homeownership & public-private partnership. Though myths can complicate the effort to use rational, systematic analysis, they must be dealt with by planning professionals. 75 References. Modified HA