Alternative Typologies & Big Picture

Beyond Distributive, Redistributive, Regulatory

Why Alternative Typologies?

  • No single typology can explain the messiness of real-world policy.
  • Alternative lenses help us see what standard categories miss.
  • Use them for insight, not as a cage.

Cost-Benefit Analysis (Wilson's Lens)

Definition: Analyze policies by who pays and who benefits—are costs and benefits concentrated or diffuse?
  • Key question: Who feels the pain? Who gets the reward?
  • Groups who expect to bear the cost usually oppose the policy.

Substantive vs. Procedural Policy

Substantive

What the government actually does (content/goals).

e.g., funding after-school programs

Procedural

How the government does it (process/rules).

e.g., requiring public hearings before making a change

Material vs. Symbolic Policy

Material

Provide tangible, concrete benefits.

Ex: Funding more police officers

Symbolic

Provide intangible benefits; appeal to values or identity.

Ex: "Just Say No" campaign

Liberal vs. Conservative Policy Frames

Liberal View

Government can solve social problems and achieve goals.
  • Supports active government intervention.
  • Focus on equality, social justice, and public welfare.
  • Examples: Expanding healthcare, environmental regulation.

Conservative View

Government is the problem; individuals and markets solve most problems.
  • Prefers minimal government intervention.
  • Focus on personal responsibility, free markets, and traditional values.
  • Examples: Tax cuts, deregulation, school choice.