The Evolution of Policy Analysis in the United States: Four Sources of Demand.

Abstract

Four demands have driven the development of policy analysis in the United States. First, reformers have sought evidence to support their efforts. Beginning with the municipal bureaus of the Progressive Era, advocacy groups have sought supportive policy analysis, eventually resulting in the current proliferation of ideologically differentiated think tanks that produce policy research. Second, politicians have recognized the need for specialized expertise to address pressing problems. Third, the growing scope and complexity of government, both at the federal and state levels, have led to a demand for information to support routine decision processes. Fourth, politicians have sought to discipline their own (and especially others’) future actions by mandating that analyses routinely be applied to certain classes of decisions.