Claim: Knowledge of economic theory and empirical techniques is all that is
needed for effective design of government policies.
Write a 1,000-word essay
that critically evaluates the claim.
Your arguments should be grounded in economic
analysis and connect to this specific policy.
Minimum alcohol pricing in Scotland:
https://www.gov.scot/policies/alcohol-and-drugs/minimum- unit-pricing/
The following questions are useful prompts
to consider when researching and writing but should not be treated as a given
structure for the essay. You should decide how you want to structure your short
essay, which should be one flowing narrative that does not require
sub-headings.
How does knowledge of theory and empirical
techniques help make policy better?
When can the theory be limited in its
applicability?
What other knowledge and skills are need for
effective policy design?
To answer these
questions, you will need to make use of your knowledge of the economics of
public policy and the facts of the specific policy you are using. You can
highlight areas where the policy aligns with economics theory, empirical
evidence and literature, and areas where they are not so well aligned. The
whole essay should tell a clear story about what you have learnt, and others
could learn, from your chosen policy about the value of economic analysis for
policy making.
