This course introduces students to the theoretical, philosophical, and ethical foundations as well as the social logic of public policy formulation in modern societies. Using a multidisciplinary approach, it pays particular attention to the complex interaction between groups, individuals, and institutions in society, and brings students to consider issues related to the nature of the modern state, business-government relations, the labour movement, non-profit and community organizations, the influence of interest groups, media and international institutions on the policy agenda.