Making (Dis)Connections: Complexity and the Policy Process.

Abstract

This article explores the methodological problems of using models from �complexity science� for understanding policy process. The article argues that the problem of complexity is not just a problems for modelling, but needs to be understand as a problem in the world of social policy itself. Highlighting the possibility of describing policy process with complexity science, the article then situates the issues through three scenarios from an ethnographic study of collaboration in social welfare. The article asks, �how do we make connections between these scenarios as part of a policy process?� and suggests there is value in understanding policy process as constituted in communications. Doing so suggests recognising the inherent role of �ignorance� as part of policy process