This module will introduce students to the useful theoretical resources and frameworks that can help us to critically assess public policies, and the processes through which they’re developed, from a normative perspective. Policymaking is rarely value-free, and many of society’s most pressing contemporary challenges require us to navigate deeply normative questions. Identifying, and carefully reflecting upon, the normative ‘stakes’ associated with policies and policymaking is therefore of critical importance to effective public administration. What are the ethical responsibilities that we should expect of politicians and public servants? What kinds of political values are promoted, or undermined, by different policies? And do the ends always (or ever!) justify the means in public policy?
This module will explore how applied approaches to political theory can help us to better understand and navigate such questions. Adopting a problem-led approach (oriented around the exploration of key case studies), students will be introduced to a range of theoretical tools that can help them to better consider, and bring alternative perspectives to, real-world public policy dilemmas and debates.