Abstract
This paper examines the conceptual confusion at the heart of regulatory policy theory and practice, particularly around the definitions and relationships among regulatory agencies, their functions, and their actions. The paper argues that this “conceptual quagmire” — the lack of clear, consistent definitions — undermines both theoretical understanding and practical reform efforts in regulatory policy. The paper was presented at a symposium focused on the impact of regulatory policy.
Department
Political Science
Publication Date
5-1-1981
Recommended Citation
Dubnick, Mel. “Agencies, Functions and Actions: The Conceptual Quagmire in Regulatory Policy Theory and Practice.” Prepared for delivery at the Sixth Annual Hendricks Symposium: “The Impact of Regulatory Policy: Theory and Substance,” University of Nebraska–Lincoln, April 30–May 1, 1981.