Power and Policy Networks

Abstract

In discussing policy network approaches & the limited use of power, this chapter examines two forms of network analysis: "change within policy networks" & "networks as a result of change." It then expands on the concept of power. Of particular interest is the idea that an analysis that focuses only on the policy network fails to completely explain policy making & governance changes when the nation-state model is experiencing intense change. Therefore, a three-step theory of power, motivated by numerous scholarly works, is employed. It is hoped that an emphasis on agency & structure will result in the emergence of a more advanced conceptualization of the power of policy making & governance. In addition, a policy network approach will encourage the "change of focus" necessary to secure an adequate explanation for the changes that affect society in general. 1 Figure. K. A. Larsen