Complex Systems Modeling in Public Administration and Policy Studies: Challenges and Opportunities for a Meta-Theoretical Research Program


TitleComplex Systems Modeling in Public Administration and Policy Studies: Challenges and Opportunities for a Meta-Theoretical Research Program
Publication TypeBook Chapter
Year of Publication2012
AuthorsKoliba, C, Zia, A
Book TitleCOMPACT I: Public Administration in Complexity
Pagination119
PublisherEmergent Publications
CityLitchfield Park, AZ
ISBN Number9781938158018
Abstract

Five theoretical frameworks of policy and governance systems including the multiple policy streams, punctuated equilibrium, institutional analysis and development, advocacy coalition, and governance network frameworks are presented as some of the meso-level, “complexity friendly” frameworks that incorporate whole systems properties, tend to avoid reductionism, allow for emergence and path dependencies, and accommodate dynamic systems characteristics. The extent to which these frameworks are accommodating to complex adaptive systems modeling and how they may be used to generate lines of inquiry that may be tested, within limits, using complex adaptive systems modeling is assessed. Further, the potential utilization of complex systems modeling tools to inform a meta-theoretical research program to compare and refine alternate theoretical frameworks is discussed. Implications for a meta-theoretical research and modeling program are explored.

Status: 
Published
Attributable Grant: 
RACC
Grant Year: 
Year2