Policy Controversies and Political Blame Games

Blame games are a common feature of modern democracies, but they are difficult to study. This book examines fifteen blame games in the UK, Germany, Switzerland, and the US and reveals the institutionalized forms of conflict management that democracies have developed to manage policy controversies. It is relevant to researchers and students of political conflict, public policy, public administration, and political communication, as well as anyone concerned about the functioning of democracy in more conflictual times.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In contemporary democracies, where policy controversies reign supreme, blame games have become a ubiquitous aspect of political discourse. Despite their prevalence, these intricate dynamics have proven challenging to study in depth. This groundbreaking book seeks to rectify that by elevating blame games to their rightful place in the realm of politics and public policy. Blame games, as miniature replicas of conflictual politics, offer invaluable insights into the workings of democracies under pressure. By employing an original framework and conducting a comparative analysis of fifteen blame games across the UK, Germany, Switzerland, and the US, the book uncovers the institutionalized mechanisms employed by democracies to navigate policy controversies. Whether it's failed infrastructure projects, food scandals, security concerns, or flawed policy reforms, democracies handle these challenges in distinct and idiosyncratic ways. This book appeals to a wide range of scholars and students interested in political conflict, public policy, public administration, and political communication. Moreover, it holds significance for all individuals who are concerned about the resilience and functioning of democracy in times of heightened conflict. Furthermore, this title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core, ensuring accessibility to a broader audience.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108816441