Systematic Thinking for Social Action

by Alice M. Rivlin

" How can we identify who benefits from government programs aimed at solving our social problem and who pays for them? With so many problems, how can we allocate scarce funds to promote the maximum well-being of our citizens? In this book, originally presented as the third series of H. Rowan Gaither Lectures in Systems Science at the University of California (Berkeley). Alice M. Rivlin examines the contributions that systematic analysis has made to decisionmaking in the government's ""social action"" programs—education, health, manpower training, and income maintenance. Drawing on her own experience in government, Mrs. Rivlin indicates where the analysts have been helpful in finding solutions and where—because of inadequate data or methods—they have been no help at all. Mrs. Rivlin concludes by urging the widespread implementation of social experimentation and acceptability by the federal government. The first in such a way as to permit valid conclusions about their effectiveness; the second would encourage the adoption of better ways of delivering services by making those who administer programs responsive to their clients. Underlying both is the requirement from comprehensive, reliable performance measures. "

Genres: Nonfiction

150 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1971

Reviews

[Philip · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bit out of date but one the best pieces of writing I've ever encountered.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was required to read this for my graduate class on policy analysis and enjoyed reading this book, since there is useful information to pull from even if the text is outdated. I believe it also highlighted that the existing issues in social policy have not changed dramatically however it gives analysts a reason to continue to contribute to the field. On the other hand, I do believe that data collection now is tremendously better now in the 70s. Overall, this was an interesting and thought provoking book to read.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

another book my dad gave me but honestly pretty insightful