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The Study and Use of Policy Research in State Legislatures

Author

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  • John A. Hird

    (University of Massachusetts Amherst, jhird@polsci.umass.edu)

Abstract

The literature on knowledge utilization generally reveals limited use of social science research in policymaking, and the proliferation of information sources and access suggests further erosion of traditional sources of expertise. However, many studies of knowledge utilization assess whether policymakers consider written research- articles, books, reports - in reaching decisions. This emphasis on the written research product neglects an important vehicle for transmitting research to policymakers: the researchers themselves and their intermediaries. I argue that social science and policy research do influence public policymaking, yet the influence of research is mediated through think tanks and other boundary individuals and organizations that digest and transmit information to policymakers. Scholars studying research utilization should recognize the importance of people apart from written research, and scholars hoping to influence policymaking should recognize that publications alone are unlikely to sway policymakers. I offer some suggestions for how scholars and legislators can better connect knowledge and power.

Suggested Citation

  • John A. Hird, 2009. "The Study and Use of Policy Research in State Legislatures," International Regional Science Review, , vol. 32(4), pages 523-535, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:inrsre:v:32:y:2009:i:4:p:523-535
    DOI: 10.1177/0160017609341401
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. David H. Greenberg & Marvin B. Mandell, 1991. "Research utilization in policymaking: A tale of two series (of social experiments)," Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 10(4), pages 633-656.
    2. Nancy Shulock, 1999. "The paradox of policy analysis: If it is not used, why do we produce so much of it?," Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 18(2), pages 226-244.
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    Cited by:

    1. Steven C. Deller, 2015. "Is Regional Science the Embodiment of the Engaged University?," The Review of Regional Studies, Southern Regional Science Association, vol. 45(1), pages 1-13, Spring.

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