Limits of Policy-Making

In today’s society, policy makers face many limitations in the policy-making process. The biggest limitation to date is the ever-increasing pluralistic values inherent in society. A pluralistic approach can be defined as “different groups… in society are divided by ideology, economic and cultural factors; all seeking to have their interests reflected in public policy”1 These competing interests from such groups as politicians, interest groups and the media play a big role in the outcomes of policy making. Other important factors in the limitations of policy-making include the short time horizon that politicians have to pass policy, as well as the unequal distribution of wealth; where the elite groups in society have the most financial and social clout, and therefore the most influence on the policy-making process. This essay will continue to describe the aforementioned limitations on policy makers, as well as discuss whether or not these limitations are necessary and/or functional; whether or not they serve a useful purpose or any particular interests; and whether or not they are a hindrance or help to effective, honest and meaningful policy-making.
The biggest limitation facing policymaking these days are the competing interests of several different groups. As McCool describes, “Public policies are the product of many individuals with different values, preferences, beliefs and knowledge”2 Firstly, it is politicians who make policy. Their main objective is to keep their jobs and therefore make policy that will get them votes in the next election. Successful politicians are ones who pass policies that will keep them in office or gain approval from other politicians or bureaucrats.3 Secondly, interest groups attempt to influence policy makers to achieve their own ends; which may or not be good for society as a whole. In her introduction to the policy making process, Pal makes this clear : “Each player or set of players tries to influence the policy process in