7 CHAPTER SUMMARY | Public-policy textbook
1.8.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
In this chapter, we present several definitions of public policy and discuss the importance of policy making on our everyday lives. Public policy is all around us, but the policies developed by lawmakers come in many different forms. Some policies distribute a good or service to everyone. Others seek to redistribute benefits and foster equality for certain groups. Finally, some are meant to regulate behaviors and establish executive agencies. Public policy can be made by government actors at the federal, state, and local levels. Understanding the policy process is important because knowledge about the system allows citizens to effectively address problems in their community. The field of public policy also offers students many lucrative career choices.
