Head, "Wicked Problems in Public Policy" (jart) (DJR? )
Head, Brian. 2008.
Wicked Problems in Public Policy (17pp)
Cite as:
Head, Brian. 2008. "Wicked Problems in Public Policy." Public Policy VOLUME 3 NUMBER 2 2008 101 –118.

Available at Wicked Problems in Public Policy (PDF)

Abstract

Some of the most difficult policy problems of the modern era have been described as complex, intractable, open-ended and 'wicked'. What are the key features of such problems? And are they really very different in nature from more routine problems? Are we developing better ways to address these wicked problems? This paper sketches some key aspects of wicked problems, and illustrates the discussion with two contemporary Australian examples - recent attempts to address the causes and possible solutions to Indigenous disadvantage; and policy responses to climate change.