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American Public Policy
Promise and Performance
Thirteenth Edition
- B. Guy Peters - University of Pittsburgh, USA
- John Hoornbeek - Kent State University
September 2025 | 624 pages | CQ Press
"This book is an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring the complicated world of public policy to their classroom." – Ben Galloway, University of Arkansas
Now in its Thirteenth Edition, American Public Policy provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview of the policymaking process, from procedural approaches and policy instruments to in-depth analysis of specific policy issues. Not shying away from the complexity of governmental procedure, B. Guy Peters and new coauthor John Hoornbeek ensure that the mechanisms of the policy process are understandable through discussion of topical policy areas.
Now in its Thirteenth Edition, American Public Policy provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview of the policymaking process, from procedural approaches and policy instruments to in-depth analysis of specific policy issues. Not shying away from the complexity of governmental procedure, B. Guy Peters and new coauthor John Hoornbeek ensure that the mechanisms of the policy process are understandable through discussion of topical policy areas.
Preface
About the Authors
Part I: The Nature of Public Policy
Chapter 1: What Is Public Policy
Chapter 2: The Structure of Policymaking in American Government
Chapter 3: Explaining Policy Choices
Part II: The Making of Public Policy
Chapter 4: Agenda Setting and Public Policy
Chapter 5: Legitimating Policy Choices
Chapter 6: Organizations and Implementation
Chapter 7: Budgeting
Chapter 8: Evaluation and Policy Change
Part III: Substantive Policy Issues
Chapter 9: Part III: Substantive Policy Issues
Chapter 10: Tax Policy
Chapter 11: Health Policies
Chapter 12: Social Security and Welfare
Chapter 13: Education Policy
Chapter 14: Energy and the Environment
Chapter 15: Defense and Law Enforcement
Chapter 16: Social Issues and Public Policy
Part IV: Analyzing Public Policy
Chapter 17: Policy Analysis
I have personally seen the book inspire students to answer the calling to public service, and they've used it as their guiding light to successful theory and practice.
Seton Hall University
Review
This book is an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring the complicated world of public policy to their classroom.
University of Arkansas
Review
This book is well-organized and detailed, and I recommend it for undergraduate policy, pre-law, or public management students.
Austin Peay State University
Review
This book is very accessible and gives a common-sense approach to the public policy process. Peters is a giant in the field, and this is some of his best work.
Lipscomb University
Review
