Profiles in Controversy Key Concepts in a Public Policy Position Paper

Profiles in Controversy: Key Concepts in a Public Policy Position PaperThe most controversial topics in a public policy position paper are those that seem like they will cause the least amount of damage or stir the most opposition. These issues need to be addressed carefully, and framed in such a way that the arguments are as clear and to the point as possible. Of course, these issues are typically those that involve a tremendous amount of money - whether it is to bail out an area of the business community that is very popular with voters or to protect certain types of life forms.On public policy issues, the first step in framing is to decide whether it is a hot button issue. Is the topic causing people to get up in arms? If so, then it is important to be clear about what you are doing by addressing the issue, since framing should be done very carefully and deliberately.Public policy issues tend to be very polarizing topics. Many times people are deeply concerned with the issue and w ill react to even the tiniest of details. For example, many will be up in arms over legalizing marijuana, since it is seen as being illegal for anyone to use it.However, if the controversial topic of same-sex marriage is brought up, it can quickly turn into a much more popular issue. A difference of opinion is a good thing, and it is often good to focus on why people disagree with your position. If the answer is that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry, then you are safe from attacks that say that you support discrimination against gays and lesbians.If you find yourself using some popular social issues as a way to frame public policy issues, you are likely to do very well in college. If your students see you using these issues to fight for change, they will be glad that you are out there fighting for them. If they see you being persuasive and careful in your approach, they will notice you and look upto you as a leader in the group.Students want to learn that a leader is able to make a difference and influence change. They want to see someone who is willing to make the hard decisions in the interests of the whole student body. When they see someone who is willing to stand up and be counted for a cause, they know that they can count on that person to take action on their behalf.Using popular social issues as a way to frame public policy issues can help students in the long run. They will be learning that public policy issues are not something that you simply ignore and get away with, but rather that you should be very careful in how you handle the issue in order to avoid alienating any group. Also, they will be learning that even though the policy is unpopular, that you can still do things to make the policy work for you.Finally, if you are preparing a public policy issues, using controversial topics can help make you a better public servant in the future. If you can find a way to be sure that you are framing your issues in a way that is appealing to stu dents, then you will be better able to change the minds of future lawmakers in the future.