Question 1

In the study of public policy and public administration, 'bottom-up' policymaking does not refer to grassroots movements' influence on the policymaking process.

Accepted Answer

Bottom-up policymaking refers to the influence of grassroots movements on the policymaking process.

Question 2

Legislation is not the only path to policy adoption.

Accepted Answer

Policy can also be adopted through executive orders, regulatory agency decisions, court rulings, and local government actions, in addition to legislation.

Question 3

The study of policy implementation focuses on 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' approaches to this stage of the policymaking process.

Accepted Answer

The study of policy implementation indeed focuses on both 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' approaches, examining how policies are put into action from the perspective of higher-level authorities directing the process, as well as from the grassroots level where individuals and local organizations have input into how policies are enacted and adapted to local conditions.

Question 4

Policy evaluation is oftentimes a neglected stage of policymaking.

Accepted Answer

Policy evaluation is frequently overlooked because it requires time, resources, and a commitment to critically assess the outcomes of policies, which can be challenging in dynamic and politically charged environments.

Question 5

Iron triangles are synonymous with political networks.

Accepted Answer

Iron triangles refer specifically to the stable, mutually beneficial relationships among regulatory agencies, interest groups, and legislative committees in U.S. politics, rather than encompassing all political networks.

Question 6

Regulatory policies are aimed at protecting individual citizens rather than businesses.

Accepted Answer

Regulatory policies are often designed to protect public interests, including the safety, health, and rights of individuals, although they can also impact businesses by setting standards and requirements.

Question 7

Max Weber is credited with having written extensively on the topic of bureaucracies.

Accepted Answer

Max Weber, a German sociologist, is well-known for his comprehensive analysis of the structure and organization of bureaucracies, which he saw as a dominant form of organization in modern societies.

Question 8

Throughout the policymaking process, which actor(s) or entity(ies) have the most influence? Why, and how?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Throughout the policymaking process, which actor(s) or...

Question 9

Consider the policymaking process in the United States and the actors involved. If you could change one element of this process in practice, what would be, how, and why?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Consider the policymaking process in the United...

Question 10

What are the similarities and differences between iron triangles and policy networks? Which idea provides a clearer conceptualization and description of agenda setters and policy influencers in the real world, and why?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What are the similarities and differences between...

Question 11

In the process of policymaking and public administration, what is the nature of checks and balances between the bureaucracy, the presidency, and Congress?

Accepted Answer

The answer of In the process of policymaking and public...

Question 12

What is the purpose of the bureaucracy in U.S. public administration? Has the bureaucracy exceeded this purpose or does it fall short? How and why so?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is the purpose of the bureaucracy...

Quiz 11: Public Policy and Public Administration