One major purpose of this book is to account for the policies adopted by African governments. We assume throughout that politcal action is purposeful behavior, and that among the major purposes of governments are the pursuit of certain social objectives and the resources needed to achieve them.
This book is designed to cover materials required for research methods courses in MPA programs certified by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPA). It is also appropriate for traditional social science methods courses if the instructor wishes ti use material focusing on examples and applications from the public policy area.