First, define a policy outcome that you wish to explain (other than the Iraq War).  Then write a paragraph indicating how this outcome might be explained by each of the three Theoretical Models.  Finally, add a paragraph stating which theory or combination of theories you believe offers the best explanation. Open this form in an editor (such as Composer or Word or WordPerfect) and type your answers.   Then open the Discussion Lists on WEBCT.  Post your answer by clicking on "compose discussion message," then pasting your answer into the box (or attaching it as a file if you prefer).

Policy Outcome:

How this would be explained using Social Class theory:

How this would be explained using Elite theory:

How this would be explained using Pluralist theory:

My conclusion:


-----------An example----

Policy Outcome:  The Decision to go to War with Iraq in 2003.

How this would be explained using Social Class theory:  Social class theory suggests that this action was taken to support the world capitalist system by suppressing assaults on the free market system, and by assuring access to oil supplies.

How this would be explained using Elite theory:  Elite theory focuses on the decision-making process in the Bush administration, arguing that a group of right-wing intellectuals played a dominant role, and that they saw this as a way to strengthen their power.

How this would be explained using Pluralist theory:  Pluralist theory emphasizes the role of interest groups, the most important in this case being Iraqi exile groups and ideologically right-wing groups in the U.S.

My conclusion:  The elite theory best explains why this action was taken in 2003.  The leadership elite decided this was the best thing to do, and manipulated public opinion to accept it.  There was no convincing economic reason why this had to be done at this time, although it was done in the general interest of the free market system.  The pressure groups could easily have been ignored by the leadership had they chosen to do so.