Theories of the Policy Process

by Christopher M. Weible

Instead of assuming that policymaking is an exercise in rational problem solving, the MSF negates the existence of a rational solution to a given problem. In contrast, the MSF assumes that because of ambiguity, a multitude of solutions to a given problem exists.

In a nutshell, the MSF assumes that political problems, policy solutions, and politics—referred to as problem stream, policy stream, and political stream—develop mostly independently of each other.

“frame conditions as public problems and work to make policymakers accept these frames. Problem brokers thus define conditions as problems.”

Kingdon identified three core elements in the political stream: the national mood, interest groups, and government.

Policy entrepreneurs should not be considered as acting more rationally than average policymakers.

The conservative nature of national political systems favors the status quo;