Discussion: Public Policy and Social Change
One of the goals of public policy is to improve the lives of citizens. In today's society many special interest groups, government agencies, community stakeholders, and citizens battle over various public policy issues that might effect social change. Effecting social change, however, does not happen easily. Those who create public policies must remain dedicated to their social issue and be prepared to engage in social disagreements and political action, as well as be able to work within government regulations. Creating public policy also requires individuals to take on various roles and remain actively involved in a social issue. Some roles include administrators, public relations, writers of public policies, and political activists. Each of these roles is vital to the creation of new public policies or changing existing ones. Consider what role related to public policy you envision adopting and how you might effect positive social change.
Consider what role you would like to play related to the creation or changing of public policies and ways in which you might effect positive social change in the future.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Review the article, "Social Networks and American Politics: Introduction to the Special Issue." Pay particular attention to the dissemination of information and the impact of social networks on the American political system in creating social change.
Review the article, "Interactions Between Social Movements and US Political Parties." Consider the needs of special interest groups, the challenges to creating public policies, and ways in which public policies can effect positive social change.
Think about your future role in public policy and the ways in which you might effect positive social change.
Create a 500-word explanation of your future role in the creation of public policy on a local, national, or global level. Then explain two ways in which you may effect positive social change in that role. Finally, explain one way in which communities could influence public policy to effect positive social change. Be specific and use examples to illustrate your points.