Policy and Complex Systems - Volume 1 Issue 1 - Spring 2014
Journal on Policy and Complex Systems Letter to Editor
Congratulations on the emergence of the Journal on Policy and Complex Systems published by the Policy Studies Organization . It is refreshing to see such advances that assume an orientation toward the study of policy and complexity . As a social worker , I come from a discipline based on systems theories , yet our discipline remains too reliant on traditional experimental and quasi-experimental research methods . Given these circumstances , the creation of your journal addresses a significant void in the area of investigating social and welfare policy because this new outlet will allow for the greater dissemination of models that forecast the multiple effects resulting from modifying social policies .
Many of us in the fields of human services conducting policy research shifted to a to a complex adaptive systems ( CAS ) orientation perspective . This desire arose because traditional research approaches were insufficient , while it became apparent how this new perspective could better inform us through the development and manipulation of agent-based models ( ABM ). Several colleagues in social work and related human services disciplines are now experimenting with ABMs on how changing policy incentives and other boundaries can affect participation at both local and national levels .
Often too little is understood about how policy and incentives affect individual and family ( agent ) decisions as these agents seek resources and assistance to address their everyday needs . Through the use of CAS and ABMs many colleagues are beginning to better forecast how various social welfare policies and incentives affect behavior . As complexity increasingly is applied to a growing range of disciplines , I along with many others appreciate the efforts behind creating a scholarly journal addressing this growing perspective .
Sincerely , Michael Wolf-Branigin , Associate Professor & Interim Chair George Mason University – Department of Social Work
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