Macro Theoretical Approaches to Public Policy Analysis: The Fiscal Crisis of American Cities

Abstract

Most empirical research on the consequences of public policy follow a mirco, "historical," and incremental approach. Thus, the validity of the predictions have limited generality. A macro, theoretical, and structural approach is presented as an alternative. Such a reorientation to public policy analysis will not only provide understanding of the context of policy predictions, but also opportunities for test ing them both historically and comparatively. It would also bring together social science theory and policy research.

This approach is illustrated with three macro structural theories of the urban fiscal crisis in the U.S.—the conflict between political demand for welfare and capital for economic growth; the decline of the city as a political force in national politics of economic distribution; and the changing techno logical base of cities and their economic viability. Each of these theories provide for different interpretations and predic tions of policies that are likely to be effective in achieving collective goals.