Power and Policy

This chapter examines a number of what might loosely be termed ‘theories of power’ that are relevant to analysing and explaining social policy making in contemporary Britain. This includes a variety of interpretations including pluralism, corporatism, Marxist and public choice interpretations. Concepts such as elites and elite theory are also discussed. The sources of power in social policy making will be perceived differently depending upon the theory adduced. Implications of these perspectives for the making and implementation of social policy are therefore considered.