Description and Features:
Citizens may use this application in order to conduct a comprehensive analysis of a public policy.  If sponsors of legislation or our staff have used Application 3 to create a 'Policy Profile' for a particular policy, users of this application may wish to consult this profile as they conduct their analysis of the policy.

In Part I of this application, users will be asked to describe the policy, discuss the issue that it addresses, and provide a brief history of related policies that have addressed this issue.  The other parts of the application represent the various parts of our framework.  In Part II, users will explore the impact of the policy -- how it is likely to affect individuals, social groups, and the environment.  (If the users or sponsors of the policy espouse religious or philosophical views about the cosmos as a whole, and these beliefs are somehow relevant to the policy in question, then the program will enable users to analyze the impact of the policy on this most comprehensive level as well.)  This part has special sections for domestic and foreign policies.  

In Part III, users will discuss how the policy is related to other policies, including past policies that have expired, those that are currently in effect, as well as those that have been proposed for the future.  For example, users may describe how a policy is part of a broader strategy through which its sponsors are addressing some public issue or problem.  From an historical perspective, they should also explain how the policy is part of an ongoing effort to address a particular issue.  This section is placed after the impact analysis because some relationships between the policy under examination and other policies may not be apparent until after the impact of the policy is more clearly understood.  In the impact analysis, citizens may even discover a broader strategy that a sponsor is pursuing without openly acknowledging it.  This is another compelling reason to search for policy relationships after analyzing the impact of a policy.  

In Part IV, users will analyze the various influences that have shaped the policy.  These influences may include the public philosophy of its sponsor(s), the views of its sponsors' constituents, public opinion in general, scientific research, as well as any deals that sponsors have made with other legislators in order to secure their support for the policy.  It is unlikely that policy sponsors will openly acknowledge the influence of some factors, such as the interests of financial supporters or controversial views that are held by some members of their party.  Citizens may thus have to do some research in order to recognize the full range of ideas and interests that shape a particular policy.  This research may be guided in part by the impact analysis in section III.  In this analysis, citizens may be able to identify the individuals and groups that will benefit from the policy.  They may then determine whether and how these individuals and groups may have influenced the policy through such means as donations or the promise of votes for the sponsor(s) when they run for reelection.  

In Part V, users will analyze how the policy reflects the competence, character, leadership of its sponsors [and their party(ies)].  This is the final section because a full and accurate analysis of sponsors' leadership and character can be conducted only after citizens have analyzed the policy's impact as well as the ways in which its sponsors have managed the various factors that have influenced the policy.  For example, sponsors' leadership and character may be called into question if they have allowed special interests to influence the policy in ways that are harmful to the welfare of society as a whole.

As with the above applications, each part of this program contains sections of our framework followed by sets of questions.  For example, in Part IV of the application, we provide the sections of our framework that explore the impact of the policy on individuals, social groups, and the environment.  One section addresses the impact of the policy on social institutions.  After that section, we list questions that ask users to describe the impact that the policy is likely to have on the effective and ethical functioning of various types of institutions.  Users will enter responses to these questions into scrolling response boxes.  

The software will then convert the questions and responses into a clear and readable format -- a 'Policy Web.'  Policy Webs are structured by five 'circles' of information that correspond to the various parts of the application.  The first is a clear presentation of the policy, the issue that it addresses, and a brief history of other policies that have been created to address this issue.  The second focuses on the ideas, interests, and other influences that shape the policy.  The third focuses on the character and leadership of the sponsors of a policy as well as their political party(ies).  The fourth is a comprehensive exploration of the likely impact of a policy on individuals, social groups, the environment, and the cosmos as a whole (if applicable).  The fifth seeks to identify relationships between the policy and other proposed and existing policies.

Users may refer to this 'Policy Web' as they evaluate the policy using our "'Citizen Choice'™ Software for Evaluating Public Policies."  The format for these two applications is very similar, so it will be easy to use the profile as a resource.  A sample format for this application may be found on the page in this web site entitled "'Informed Citizen'™ Software for Understanding Public Policies."

Citizens may also use this application to analyze broader initiatives and strategies that address challenging issues through several coordinated policies.  For example, citizens may analyze a broader strategy for fighting terrorism or reducing air pollution that includes several specific policies.  This analysis may be described as a 'Strategy Web' that explores the overall impact of a set of related policies.

CURRICULUM NOTE:  In the 'Dialogue in the Public Square' Curriculum, students may use this application to analyze actual public policies as well as policies that they create as part of a class exercise.  If students do not have access to computers, they may complete this exercise using worksheets that we will include in our printed resources.

include this in proposing apps?
When she or he has completed all of the sets of questions, the user will submit their responses to our web site using a special password.  The software will then convert the questions and responses into a clear and readable format -- a 'Policy Profile' -- that we will post on our web site for the public to view.

Part I:  Policy Introduction

In order to better understand the goals and historical context of a particular domestic or foreign policy, users should complete the following tasks:

Summarize the main provisions of the policy.
Identify the general policy area(s) to which it is most relevant (energy, health care, international trade, etc.).
Discuss the issues or problems that the policy addresses.
Construct a brief history of other policies that have addressed these problems or issues.

Part II:  Understanding the Impact of Legislation

* Note to users:  Since the actual impact of legislation is difficult to predict with absolute certainty, all of the questions below explore the likely impact of policies.  For the sake of brevity and style, we have not phrased questions in a way that reflects this unavoidable uncertainty.

Domestic Focus

I.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on Individuals
The text from the introduction to this section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here.

A.  Analyzing the Impact of Legislation on the Different Dimensions of an Individual's Personality and Lifestyle
The text from section I.A of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

What impact will the legislation have on the following dimensions of individual development and well-being? 

Physical

Relational

Intellectual

Vocational/Economic

Political

Cultural

Artistic

Moral

Spiritual

B.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of the Developmental Nature of the Human Person
The text from section I.B-C of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the policy's sponsors recognize the developmental nature of the human person?  More specifically, do they recognize the developmental nature of personal liberty and fulfillment?  If so, how does the policy reflect a developmental view of human nature?  If not, in what ways does it not reflect a developmental view of human nature?

C.  Analyzing the Impact of Legislation on the Exercise of Human Rights
The text from section I.D of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

How will the legislation impact the exercise of the following types of human rights?

economic and physical rights 
(rights to bodily safety and fitness, to clean water, to affordable food, housing, and medical care; to adequate vocational education and training; to a just wage for one's labor; to start a business; and to own property; also include rights to food, shelter, and health care if one is unable to work due to personal disability)  

civil rights 
(freedom from discrimination on the basis of one's creed, race, ethnicity, or gender)  

political rights 
(rights to civic education, to peaceful public assembly, to form and participate in political associations, to vote, and to petition the government)  

juridical rights 
(rights to fair and just treatment from law enforcement agencies and courts; examples include the rights to due process of law, to trial by a jury of one's peers, to representation in court, to protection from illegal search and seizure, and to protection cruel and unusual punishment)  

broader social rights 
(the freedom marry and establish a family and the right to form and participate in religious and civic institutions of all kinds)  

cultural rights 
(the freedom to express the customs and values of one's culture; also include the right to learn about the historical and philosophical foundations of one's culture as well as its modes of artistic expression)  

expressive rights 
(the ability of citizens to share their views in the public square; include the freedom of speech, the freedom of the press, and the right to artistic expression)

rights to education 
(right to a level of education that enables individuals to form a coherent world view; also include the educational dimension of the economic, political, and cultural rights described above)

D.  Analyzing the Legislation' Recognition of Relationships between Rights
Does the legislation reflect an understanding of relationships between human rights within the dynamics of human development?  If so, how?  If not, how?

E.  Analyzing the Legislation's Integration of Rights and Responsibilities
The text from section I.E of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Does the legislation empower individuals to assume their responsibilities as well as exercise their rights?  If so, how?  If not, how?

F.  Analyzing the Legislation's Integration of Personal Initiative and Social Support
The text from section I.F of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Does the legislation acknowledge the roles played by both personal initiative and social support in personal development?  If so, how?  If not, how?



II.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on the Social Level of Organization
The text from the introduction to section II of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here.

A. The Impact of Legislation on Social Institutions
The text from section II.A of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

How will the legislation affect the effective and ethical functioning of the following institutions?  I.e., how does it encourage 

• a clear and consistent sense of mission within institutions,
• standards of excellence in the development of skills that are essential to institutions' missions,
• the establishment of codes of ethics that are relevant to institutions' missions, 
• the cultivation of constructive relationships within each group and between each group and other groups,
• inclusiveness in membership, decision-making, and mission;  
• transparency in decision-making processes; and
• institutional accountability in general?

Overall, how will the legislation affect the capacity of the following groups to promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?

1)  The Rule of Law
Does the legislation help governments to establish and maintain the rule of law?  If so, how?  If not, how does it undermine the rule of law (issues related to the rule of law, such as corruption, are also addressed in the section below on 'Accountability')?

2)  Clarity of Mission
Does it help all government institutions to maintain a clear and consistent understanding of their missions?  If so, how?  If not, does it create confusion or ambiguity in these institutions' missions?  If so, how?

3)  Standards of Excellence
Does it promote standards of excellence in policymaking and citizenship on all levels of government (i.e. local, state, and national)?  If so, how?  If not, does it seem to erode such standards?  How?

4)  Constructive Relationships
How does it affect the quality of relationships between government officials, between political parties, between government organizations of all types, between citizens, and between citizens and their leaders?  Does it promote a spirit of civility and collaboration in public life?  If so, how?  If not, does it contribute to a more divisive, hostile atmosphere in public life?  If it does, how does it do this?  Is there a legitimate reason why it might promote division and dissent in public life?

5)  Inclusive Membership
How does the legislation encourage or discourage inclusiveness or diversity within government bodies?

6)  Inclusive Decision-Making
How does it encourage or discourage governments to use decision-making processes that are more inclusive or open to public input?

7)  Inclusive Mission
How does it affect the ability of governments to enact and enforce policies that are more inclusive; i.e. that avoid discrimination?  Does it discourage or encourage governments to enact such policies?

8)  Accountability
How does it encourage or discourage adherence to codes of ethics within government institutions?  

How does it encourage or discourage governments to use decision-making processes that are transparent, or open to public review and evaluation, as well as inclusive?  In other words, how does it promote or discourage decision-making processes that are democratic, accountable, less prone to corruption, and more responsive to the needs, views, and interests of citizens?  

9)  Military Preparedness and National Security
How does it impact the ability of your national government to efficiently maintain a military force that is capable of defending the nation's security, interests, and values?

How does it affect the ability of your government to strike a balance between spending on military programs and on those programs that promote personal development, social progress, and environmental protection?

How does the legislation reflect a broader, more enlightened view of national security that focuses on environmental protection and improving of the lives of citizens both within and beyond the borders of your nation?

10)  Overall Promotion of the Common Good
In what other ways does the legislation affect the ability of governments to enact and enforce policies that promote individual development, social progress, and ecological stability?

*  If the legislation affects only local or state governments, then the focus is on these levels of government.  If it is national legislation, then the focus includes all levels of government.


B.  The Impact of Legislation on Social Sectors
The text from section II.B of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

How will the legislation affect relationships

within the market sector?

within the state sector?

within civil society?

between the state and the market sectors?

between the state sector and civil society?

between the market sector and civil society?

How does it affect relationships between the media and the three sectors?

How does it affect relationships between political parties and the state?

How does it affect relationships between government enterprises and the three sectors?


C. The Impact of Legislation on Different Levels of Social Organization
The text from section II.C of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Does the legislation recognize the impact of public issues on all relevant levels of social organization (i.e. local, state, national, international)? 

Does it give priority to issues that affect higher levels of social organization -- issues that impact many individuals and groups on lower levels?  If so, how?  If not, how?  

Does it give priority to the impact of local issues on higher levels of social organization?  If so, how?  If not, how?

How does it encourage or discourage local initiative and responsibility in responses to important social issues?

How does it encourage or discourage coordination on higher levels of administration when this is necessary?
  
Does it reflect a preference for a primary locus of decision-making (local, state, national, international level of administration)?  That is, does the legislation reflect a preference for addressing issues on some levels of administration rather than others (i.e. on the local or state rather than the federal level)?

Does it apply the principle of subsidiarity to issues relating to family life?  If so, how?  If not, how does it undercut this principle in family matters?

Does it apply the principles to the market sector and civil society?  If so, how?  If not, how does it undercut this principle in these two sectors?

How does it compromise or preserve the integrity of higher level social processes such as the market system and the democratic process?  That is, how does it allow or prevent abuses of these processes by individuals and institutions on lower levels of organization?


D. The Impact of Legislation on Socio-Cultural Collectivities
The text from section II.D of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

How does the legislation promote or diminish equal opportunities for self-development* among persons of different:

Classes

Races

Ethnic Groups

Nationalities

Religions

Genders

Age Groups

Sexual orientations

Areas of residence (i.e. rural and urban)

* This includes providing equal opportunities for development as well as discouraging discrimination against members in these groups.



III.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on the Ecological  Level of Organization
The text from section III of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

A.  Conservation

How does the legislation impact

endangered species?

biodiversity?

wilderness areas?


B.  Sustainable Technologies and Lifestyles

Does the legislation promote

1.  Sustainable Extraction of Raw Materials
ecologically sound practices of mining for metals, minerals, and coal? of drilling for oil and gas?  If so, how?  If not, does it discourage these practices?  If so, how?

2.  Sustainable Growth and Harvesting of Food and Forestry Products
ecologically sound methods of farming, fishing, and forestry?  If so, how?  If not, does it discourage these methods?  If so, how?

3.  Conservation of Natural Resources
the conservation of natural resources such as water, forest products, petroleum, metals, and minerals?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

4.  Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies
the development of less polluting technologies for manufacturing goods?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

5.  Sustainable Energy Generation
the development of less polluting technologies for generating energy?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

6.  Sustainable Design and Construction
the implementation of designs for construction and renovation that increase the energy-efficiency of all types of buildings?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

7.  Energy-Efficiency of Electronic Devices
the development of appliances and other electronic devices that are more energy-efficient?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

8.  Sustainable Transportation Technology
the development of less polluting technologies for transportation?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

9.  Population Control
Does the legislation encourage families to have fewer children so that population growth may be reduced?

10.  'Smart Growth' in Residential and Urban Development
Does the legislation promote 'smart growth' -- planning communities in ways that minimize traffic congestion and pollution?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?  

11.  Waste Management
Does the legislation promote less polluting and more efficient methods of waste management (strategies for recycling, toxic waste disposal)?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

12.  Integration of Economic and Environmental Values
Do the legislation's sponsors strive to integrate the goals of economic growth and ecological stewardship in their proposal?  If so, how?  If not, how does the legislation pursue economic growth in ways that damage the environment, or how does the legislation strive to protect the environment in ways that stifle economic growth? 

13.  Addressing Global Environmental Issues on the Local, State, and National Levels
Does the legislation address global environmental issues, such as climate change and acid rain, through initiatives on the local, state, and/or national level?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine initiatives that do address these issues?  If so, how?



IV.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on the Cosmic Level of Organization

A.  Analyzing Legislation from the Perspective of One's Own Cosmic Views
The text from section IV.A of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do you believe that universal principles or laws govern human affairs, such as the principles of yin-yang or the law of karma?  Do you believe in some divine plan for the universe that guides human history (such as the coming of the Kingdom of God)?  Do you believe in some system of divine justice that operates in human affairs?  If you espouse any of these views, how does this legislation relate to your cosmic views?  If you believe in a divine plan, how does it relate to this divine plan?  Does it further or hinder this plan?  If you believe in a cosmic system of divine justice, how does it relate to this system?  If you espouse universal laws or principles, how does it relate to these laws and principles?  Are the likely effects of the legislation consistent with or in conflict with these laws or principles?

B.  Exploring the Cosmic Views of Sponsors of Legislation
The text from section IV.B of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the legislation's sponsors espouse beliefs regarding the cosmic level of organization?  If so, are these beliefs relevant to the goals of their proposal?  (Keep in mind that the sponsors may maintain that it is inappropriate to integrate cosmic beliefs into their political views.)

If they espouse views on the cosmos, and these views are relevant to their policy goals, how do the sponsors expect their proposal to impact the cosmos as a whole?

If the sponsors espouse views about the cosmos as a whole, and if these views influence the goals of their policy, do these beliefs seem to influence the policy's goals in ways that promote or diminish the common good?  (Since these beliefs are part of sponsors' public philosophy(ies), see also the question in Part IV that asks how sponsors' public philosophies influences their policy proposal.)

If the sponsors espouse religious beliefs about the cosmos as a whole, and if the goals of the legislation are derived from these beliefs, do these goals violate the principle of the separation of church and state?  In other words, does the legislation commit the government to cosmic religious goals that are not appropriate to its mission?  If so, how?  Or does the legislation pursue cosmic religious goals that can be 'translated' into more concrete secular goals that the government should pursue as it promotes the common good?



V.  Analyzing Sponsors' Recognition of the Impact of the Legislation on All Levels of Organization
The text from section V of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the legislation's sponsors recognize the effects of the legislation on all levels of organization -- on individuals, social groups, the environment, and the cosmos as a whole (if they espouse cosmic views that are relevant to their policy goals)?  If so, how?  If not, how do they fail to recognize the legislation's impact on one or more levels?



VI.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of Relationships between Different Levels of Organization

Does the sponsors recognize the impact of the legislation on relationships between different levels of organization?  (For example, do they recognize the impact of the legislation on relationships between society and the environment?)  If so, how?  If not, how do they fail to understand the impact of the legislation on relationships between the different levels of organization?  



VII.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of the Hierarchy of Value and Order of Priority among the Different Levels of Organization
The text from section VI of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the question below.

Do the legislation's sponsors recognize a hierarchy of value and order of priority as they set forth the legislation and describe its likely impact on individuals, social groups, the environment, and, if applicable, the cosmos as a whole?  Do they, for example, consider that the legislation's impact on some levels of organization is more important in the long run than its impact on other levels or organization?  In a similar way, do they consider that issues on some levels of organization should be addressed with greater urgency than issues on other levels?  If the sponsors do recognize some sort of hierarchy of value and order of priority, describe it.  If not, should the sponsors, in your view, recognize a hierarchy of value or order of priority?  If you believe that they should, describe how they might do so.



VIII.  Analyzing how the Sponsors Weigh Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of the Legislation
The text from section VII of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

A.  Trade-Offs between Short-Term Costs and Long-Term Benefits of Domestic Policies
As they explain and defend their proposal, do the sponsors acknowledge trade-offs between the short- and long-term costs and benefits of the legislation?  If not, describe how the sponsors seem to ignore these trade-offs.

B.  Recognizing that Those Who Bear the Short-Term Costs of Sound Policies Often Realize Benefits in the Long-Term
Do the sponsors explain how those who bear the short-term costs of sound policies often enjoy benefits from these policies in the long term because sound policies promote social progress and environmental stewardship?

C.  Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Policies for Different Individuals
How do the sponsors deal with trade-offs regarding the legislation's costs and benefits for different individuals (i.e. Do they describe whether and how they will justify burdens placed on some individuals for the benefit of other individuals)?

D.  Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Policies for Different Social Groups
How do the sponsors deal with trade-offs regarding the legislation's costs and benefits for different social groups (i.e. Do they describe whether and how they will justify burdens placed on some social groups for the benefit of other social groups)?

E.  Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Policies for Different Levels of Organization
How do the sponsors deal with trade-offs regarding the legislation's costs and benefits for entities on different levels of organization (i.e. Do they describe whether and how they will justify burdens placed on entities on one level of organization for the benefit of entities on other levels of organization? For example, how do they justify placing burdens on individuals for the sake of social groups?  on social groups for the sake of the environment?  More generally, do they describe how they will deal with trade-offs between special interests promoted by policies and the needs and interests of the common good?

F.  Failures to Recognize the Trade-Offs Associated with Policies
Do the sponsors fail to recognize the trade-offs associated with the legislation's costs and benefits?  If so, describe how they fail to do so.



IX.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Commitment to an 'Experimental Approach' to Domestic Policy-Making
The text from section VIII of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the question below.

As they explain and defend their proposed legislation, do the sponsors express and demonstrate a commitment to an ‘experimental approach’ to domestic policy-making?  If so, how?  If not, how do they demonstrate a lack of commitment to this approach?

Understanding the Impact of Foreign Policies
(as well as the Impact of Domestic Policies on Foreign Relations)

The text from Introduction to the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here.


I.  Understanding the Impact of Foreign Policies on Individuals
The text from Introduction to this section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here.

A.  Understanding the Impact of Foreign Policies on the Different Dimensions of the Human Person
The text from section I.A of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

In all nations affected by it, what impact will the foreign policy have on the following dimensions of personal well-being and development? 

Physical

Relational

Intellectual

Vocational/Economic

Political

Cultural

Artistic

Moral

Spiritual


B.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of the Developmental Nature of the Human Person
The text from section I.B-C of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the policy's sponsors recognize the developmental nature of the human person?  More specifically, do they recognize the developmental nature of personal liberty and fulfillment?  If so, how does the foreign policy reflect a developmental view of human nature?  If not, how does it not reflect a developmental view of human nature?

C.  Analyzing the Impact of Foreign Policies on the Exercise of Human Rights
The text from section I.D of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

How will the foreign policy impact the exercise of the following types of human rights in all nations affected by it?  

economic and physical rights 
(rights to bodily safety and fitness, to clean water, to affordable food, housing, and medical care; to adequate vocational education and training; to a just wage for one's labor; to start a business; and to own property; also include rights to food, shelter, and health care if one is unable to work due to personal disability)  

civil rights 
(freedom from discrimination on the basis of one's creed, race, ethnicity, or gender)  

political rights 
(rights to civic education, to peaceful public assembly, to form and participate in political associations, to vote, and to petition the government)  

juridical rights 
(rights to fair and just treatment from law enforcement agencies and courts; examples include the rights to due process of law, to trial by a jury of one's peers, to representation in court, to protection from illegal search and seizure, and to protection cruel and unusual punishment)  

broader social rights 
(the freedom marry and establish a family and the right to form and participate in religious and civic institutions of all kinds)  

cultural rights 
(the freedom to express the customs and values of one's culture; also include the right to learn about the historical and philosophical foundations of one's culture as well as its modes of artistic expression)  

expressive rights 
(the ability of citizens to share their views in the public square; include the freedom of speech, the freedom of the press, and the right to artistic expression)

rights to education 
(right to a level of education that enables individuals to form a coherent world view; also include the educational dimension of the economic, political, and cultural rights described above)

D.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of Relationships between Rights
Does the foreign policy reflect an understanding of relationships between human rights within the dynamics of human development?  If so, how?  If not, how?

E.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Integration of Rights and Responsibilities
The text from section I.E of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

In all nations affected by it, does the foreign policy empower individuals to assume their responsibilities as well as exercise their rights?  If so, how? If not, how?

F.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Integration of Personal Initiative and Social Support
The text from section I.F of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Does the foreign policy acknowledge the roles played by both personal initiative and social support in personal development?  If so, how?  If not, how?



II.  Understanding the Impact of a Foreign Policy on the Social Level of Organization
The text from section II of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

A.  The Impact on National and International Institutions
The text from section II.A of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

1.  Institutions within Nations
What is the likely impact of the foreign policy on the effective and ethical functioning of the following social institutions within nations affected by it?  I.e. How does the foreign policy help these institutions to maintain a clear and consistent understanding of their missions?  How does it encourage these groups to uphold standards of excellence regarding the skills and values that are essential to their missions?  How does it promote transparent and inclusive decision-making processes within these groups?  How does it help them to resist corruption?  How does it encourage them to adopt non-discriminatory policies and programs?  How does it help these groups to promote constructive relationships among their members and with other groups?  Overall, how does it affect the following institutions' ability to promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?

Families

Churches

Civic organizations

Advocacy groups that represent the interests of specific populations: the elderly, supporters of gun rights, consumers, etc.

Nongovernmental organizations  that promote political justice, economic justice, human rights, and/or ecological stewardship

Media organizations: TV networks, radio stations; newspaper and magazine publishers

Business Firms

Trade associations that represent the interests of business firms that produce similar goods and services

Labor Unions

Schools: primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education

Charitable organizations that serve the needs of especially vulnerable populations: the poor, elderly, etc.

Institutions that support the arts

Political parties


a)  Special Focus on Local and National Governments

1)  The Rule of Law
Does the foreign policy help governments to establish and maintain the rule of law in all nations affected by it?  If so, how?  If not, how does it undermine the rule of law (issues related to the rule of law, such as corruption, are also addressed in the section below on 'Accountability')?

2)  Clarity of Mission
In all nations affected by it, does the policy help all government institutions to maintain a clear and consistent understanding of their missions?  If so, how?  If not, does it create confusion or ambiguity in these institutions' missions?  If so, how?

3)  Standards of Excellence
Does it promote standards of excellence in policymaking and citizenship on all levels of government (i.e. local, state, and national) in all nations affected by it?  If so, how?  If not, does it seem to erode such standards?  How?

4)  Constructive Relationships
How does it affect the quality of relationships between government officials, between political parties, between government organizations of all types, between citizens, and between citizens and their leaders?

How does it affect relationships between different national governments?

5)  Inclusive Membership
How does the policy encourage or discourage inclusiveness or diversity within government bodies?

6)  Inclusive Decision-Making
How does it encourage or discourage governments to use decision-making processes that are more inclusive or open to public input?

7)  Inclusive Mission
How does it affect the ability of governments to enact and enforce policies that are more inclusive; i.e. that avoid discrimination?  Does it discourage or encourage governments to enact such policies?

8)  Accountability
How does it encourage or discourage adherence to codes of ethics within government institutions?  

How does it encourage or discourage governments to use decision-making processes that are transparent, or open to public review and evaluation, as well as inclusive?  In other words, how does it promote or discourage decision-making processes that are democratic, accountable, less prone to corruption, and more responsive to the needs, views, and interests of citizens?

9)  National Sovereignty or Self-Determination
How does it promote or threaten the sovereignty of nations, that is, their ability to govern without undue interference from other nations?

10)  Foreign Aid
If the policy somehow deals with the distribution of foreign aid, how will this aid be distributed?  Does the policy set forth principles that govern this distribution?

What are the goals of the aid?  In your view, will it empower recipients to promote the common good of their nation?  If so, how?  If not, how will it damage the common good in recipient nations?

11)  Military Preparedness and National Security
How does it impact the ability of national governments to efficiently maintain adequate military capabilities?

Does it affect the ability of governments to strike a balance between spending on military programs and on those programs that promote human development and environmental protection?  If so, how?  

How does it reinforce or undermine a broader, more enlightened view of national security that focuses on environmental protection and improving of the lives of citizens both within and beyond the borders of your nation?

12)  Overall Promotion of the Common Good
In what other ways does the foreign policy affect the ability of governments to enact and enforce legislation that promotes individual development, social progress, and ecological stability?

 
b)  The Use of Force for the National Defense:  A Special Issue for National Governments
How does the foreign policy reinforce or undermine nonviolent strategies for resolving international conflicts in general, and, more specifically, for addressing current conflicts around the globe?

If the policy involves the use of military force, what principles are used to justify this use of force?

How does the foreign policy reinforce or undermine long-term strategies for cultivating peace and prosperity, particularly in troubled regions of the world?


2.  International Institutions
How will the foreign policy impact the effective and ethical functioning of the following international social institutions?  I.e. How does it help these institutions to maintain a clear and consistent understanding of their missions?  How does it encourage international organizations to uphold standards of excellence regarding the skills and values that are essential to their missions?  How does it promote inclusiveness in membership, decision-making, and outreach?  How does it promote accountability within these groups?  How does it help these institutions to resist corruption?  How does it help them to promote constructive relationships among their members and with other institutions?  Overall, how does it affect the following institutions' ability to promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?

international governing organizations such as the United Nations

international alliances or blocs (such as NATO)

international religious bodies

international media organizations (TV and radio networks, magazine and newspaper publishers, etc.)

international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank

other organizations that finance international development programs

institutions that regulate international trade (such as the World Trade Organization)

international groups that serve the needy or vulnerable -- the poor, the sick, the elderly, victims of disasters, etc.

international nongovernmental organizations that advocate economic justice, political justice, and environmental stewardship

international labor unions

international organizations that coordinate cultural projects, including sporting events

corporations in your nation that export goods to different nations

transnational corporations that maintain operations in more than one nation


B.  The Impact on National and International Social Sectors
The text from section II.B of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

1.  Impact on Social Sectors within Nations

How does the foreign policy impact relationships

within the government sectors of all nations affected by it?

within the market sectors of all nations affected by it?

within the civil sector of all nations affected by it?

between the government and market sectors of all nations affected by it?

between the government and civil sectors of all nations affected by it?

between the market and civil sectors of all nations affected by it?


How does the policy affect relationships between the media and the three sectors in all nations affected by it?

How does the policy affect relationships between political parties and governments in all nations affected by it?

How does it affect relationships between government enterprises and the three sectors in all nations affected by it?


2.  Impact on International Social Sectors

How does the foreign policy impact relationships

within the international government sector?

within the international market sector?

within international civil society?


between international governing bodies and international markets?

between international governing bodies and international civil society?

between international civil society and international markets?


How does the policy affect relationships between the international media and the three international sectors?


C.  The Impact on Different Levels of Social Organization
The text from section II.C of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the foreign policy's sponsors recognize the impact of the policy on all relevant levels of social organization (i.e. local, regional, national, international)?  If so, how?  If not, how?

Does the policy give priority to issues that affect higher levels of social organization -- issues that impact large numbers of individuals and groups?  If so, how?  If not, how?

Does it give priority to the impact of local issues on higher levels of social organization?  If so, how?  If not, how?

How does it encourage or discourage local initiative and responsibility in responses to important social issues?

How does it encourage or discourage coordination on higher levels of administration when this is necessary?

How does the policy affect relationships between government institutions and policymakers on different levels of social organization (local, state, national, international)?

Does the policy apply the principle of subsidiarity to issues related to family life in all nations affected by it?  If so, how?

Does it apply the principle of subsidiarity to the market sector and civil society in all nations affected by it?  If so, how?

Does the policy reflect a preference for addressing international issues on a certain level of social organization?  That is, do its sponsors prefer to address international issues through a coordinated response of the entire global community, through regional initiatives involving nations in the same geographic area, or through responses from national governments acting independently of one another?  Does this preference vary from issue to issue?  If so, how?

Does the policy address the trend toward the globalization of the world economy?  If so, how does it propose to maximize the benefits of globalization while minimizing risks and abuses?

How does the policy preserve or compromise the integrity of higher level processes such as the international market system?  How does it propose to prevent abuses of this system by individuals and institutions on lower levels of organization?

Does the policy support the use of multi-lateral international decision-making processes?  If so, how does it plan to maximize the effectiveness of these processes?  If not, why does it believe that these processes do not serve the interests of your nation and the international community?


D.  The Impact on Socio-Cultural Collectivities
The text from section II.D of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

In all nations affected by it, how does the foreign policy promote or diminish equal opportunities for self-development* among persons of different:

Classes?

Races?

Ethnic Groups?

Nationalities?

Religions and sects?

Genders?

Age Groups?

Sexual orientations?

Areas of residence (rural or urban)?

* This includes providing equal opportunities for development as well as discouraging discrimination against members in these groups.



III.  Understanding the Impact of the Foreign Policy on the Ecological Level of Organization
The text from section III of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

A.  Conservation

In all nations affected by it, how will the policy impact

endangered species?

biodiversity?

wilderness areas?


B.  Sustainable Technologies and Lifestyles

In all nations affected by it, does the foreign policy promote

1.  Sustainable Extraction of Raw Materials
ecologically sound practices of mining for metals, minerals, and coal? of drilling for oil and gas?  If so, how?  If not, does it discourage these practices?  If so, how?

2.  Sustainable Growth and Harvesting of Food and Forestry Products
ecologically sound methods of farming, fishing, and forestry?  If so, how?  If not, does it discourage these methods?  If so, how?

3.  Conservation of Natural Resources
the conservation of natural resources such as water, forest products, petroleum, metals, and minerals?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

4.  Sustainable Manufacturing Technologies
the development of less polluting technologies for manufacturing goods?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

5.  Sustainable Energy Generation
the development of less polluting technologies for generating energy?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

6.  Sustainable Design and Construction
the implementation of designs for construction and renovation that increase the energy-efficiency of all types of buildings?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

7.  Energy-Efficiency of Electronic Devices
the development of appliances and other electronic devices that are more energy-efficient?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

8.  Sustainable Transportation Technology
the development of less polluting technologies for transportation?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

9.  Population Control
Does the policy encourage families to have fewer children so that human populations will not place excessive demands on the Earth's limited resources?

10.  'Smart Growth' in Residential and Urban Development
Does it promote 'smart growth' in the international community?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how? 

11.  Waste Management
Does it promote less polluting and more efficient methods of waste management (strategies for recycling, toxic waste disposal) in the international community?  If so, how?  If not, does it undermine this goal?  If so, how?

12.  Integration of Economic and Environmental Values
Does the policy strive to integrate the goals of economic growth and ecological stewardship?  If so, how?  If not, how does the policy pursue economic growth in ways that damage the environment, or how does the policy strive to protect the environment in ways that stifle economic growth?

13.  Global Environmental Challenges
Does the foreign policy address global environmental issues, such as climate change and acid rain?  If not, does it undermine initiatives that do address these issues?  If so, how?



IV.  Understanding the Impact of the Foreign Policy on the Cosmic Level of Organization

A.  Understanding a Foreign Policy from the Perspective of One's Own Cosmic Views
The text from section IV.A of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do you believe that universal principles or laws govern human affairs, such as the principles of yin-yang or the law of karma?  Do you believe in some divine plan for the universe that guides human history (such as the coming of the Kingdom of God)?  Do you believe in some system of divine justice that operates in human affairs?  If you espouse any of these views, how does the policy relate to your cosmic views?  If you believe in a divine plan, how does it relate to this divine plan?  Does it further or hinder this plan?  If you believe in a cosmic system of divine justice, how does it relate to this system?  If you espouse universal laws or principles, how does it relate to these laws and principles?  Are the likely effects of the candidate's foreign policies consistent with or in conflict with these laws or principles?

B.  Exploring the Cosmic Views of Candidates
The text from section IV.B of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the policy's sponsors espouse beliefs regarding the cosmic level of organization?  If so, are these beliefs relevant to the goals of the policy?  (Keep in mind that the sponsors may maintain that it is inappropriate to integrate cosmic beliefs into their political views.)

If they espouse views on the cosmos, and these views are relevant to their foreign policy goals, how do the policy's sponsors expect their proposal to impact the cosmos as a whole?

If the sponsors espouse views about the cosmos as a whole, and if these views influence the goals of their foreign policy, do these beliefs seem to influence the policy's goals in ways that promote or diminish the common good?  (Since these beliefs are part of sponsors' public philosophy(ies), see also the question in Part IV that asks how sponsors' public philosophies influences their policy proposal.)

If the sponsors espouse religious beliefs about the cosmos as a whole, and they use these beliefs to defend the policy, is the influence of these beliefs consistent with the principle of the separation of church and state?  In other words, does the policy commit the government to cosmic religious goals that are not appropriate to its mission?  If so, how?  Or does the platform pursue cosmic religious goals that can be 'translated' into more concrete secular goals that the government should pursue as it promotes the common good?



V.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of the Foreign Policy's Impact on All Levels of Organization
The text from section V of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do the sponsors recognize the effects of their proposal on all levels of organization -- on individuals, social groups, the environment, and the cosmos as a whole (if they espouse cosmic views that are relevant to their policy goals)?  If so, how?  If not, how do they fail to recognize the effects of the policy on one or more levels?



VI.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of Relationships between Different Levels of Organization

Do the sponsors recognize the impact of their proposal on relationships between different levels of organization?  (For example, do they recognize the impact of their economic policies on relationships between society and the environment?)  If so, how?  If not, how do they fail to understand the impact of the policy on relationships between the different levels of organization?  



VII.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Recognition of the Hierarchy of Value and Order of Priority among the Different Levels of Organization
The text from section VI of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the question below.

Do the sponsors recognize a hierarchy of value and order of priority as they set forth the foreign policy and describe its likely impact on individuals, social groups, the environment, and, if applicable, the cosmos as a whole?  Do they, for example, consider that the policy's impact on some levels of organization is more important in the long run than its impact on other levels or organization?  In a similar way, do they consider that issues on some levels of organization should be addressed with greater urgency than issues on other levels?  If sponsors do recognize some sort of hierarchy of value and order of priority, describe it.  If not, should the sponsors, in your view, recognize a hierarchy of value or order of priority?  If you believe that they should, describe how they might do so.



VIII.  Analyzing How a Foreign Policy's Sponsors Weigh Trade-Offs between the Policy's Costs and Benefits
The text from section VII of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

A.  Trade-Offs between Short-Term Costs and Long-Term Benefits of Foreign Policies
As they explain and defend their proposal, do the sponsors acknowledge trade-offs between the short- and long-term costs and benefits of the foreign policy?  If not, describe how the sponsors seem to ignore these trade-offs.

B.  Recognizing that Those Who Bear the Short-Term Costs of Sound Policies Often Realize Benefits in the Long-Term
Do the sponsors explain how those who bear the short-term costs of sound foreign policies often enjoy benefits from these policies in the long term because sound policies promote social progress and environmental stewardship?

C.  Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Foreign Policies for Different Individuals
How do the sponsors deal with trade-offs regarding the foreign policy's costs and benefits for different individuals (i.e. Do they describe whether and how they will justify burdens placed on some individuals for the benefit of other individuals)?

D.  Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Foreign Policies for Different Social Groups
How do the sponsors deal with trade-offs regarding the foreign policy's costs and benefits for different social groups (i.e. Do they describe whether and how they will justify burdens placed on some social groups for the benefit of other social groups)?

E.  Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Foreign Policies for Different Levels of Organization
How do the sponsors deal with trade-offs regarding the foreign policy's costs and benefits for entities on different levels of organization (i.e. Do they describe whether and how they will justify burdens placed on entities on one level of organization for the benefit of entities on other levels of organization?  For example, how do they justify placing burdens on individuals for the sake of social groups?  on social groups for the sake of the environment?  More generally, do they describe how they will deal with trade-offs between special interests promoted by the foreign policy and the needs and interests of the common good?

F.  Failures to Recognize the Trade-Offs Associated with Foreign Policies
Do the sponsors fail to recognize the trade-offs associated with the foreign policy's costs and benefits?  If so, describe how they fail to do so.



IX.  Analyzing the Sponsors' Commitment to an 'Experimental Approach' to Foreign Policy-Making
The text from section VIII of "The Framework for Understanding and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the question below.

As they explain and defend their proposed foreign policy, do the sponsors express and demonstrate a commitment to an ‘experimental approach’ to domestic policy-making?  If so, how?  If not, how do they demonstrate a lack of commitment to this approach?

Part III:  Understanding Relationships between Policies

I. The Integration of Policies into Broader Strategies for Addressing Issues
Do the sponsors clearly describe how the policy is related to other policies in broader strategies that address an issue or problem?

II.  Evaluating Relationships between Proposed and Previously Enacted Policies
Do the sponsors explain how the policy relates to previously enacted policies that address the same issue?  I.e. have the policy's sponsors carefully evaluated the outcomes of these policies and then integrated insights gained from this evaluation into their proposal? (This question has already been addressed in the section above on our'experimental approach' to public policymaking.  However, we repeat it here to emphasize the importance of this process.)

Part IV: Recognizing the
Influences that Shape Public Policies

Part III of our "Method for Political Analysis" will be presented here.  It will be followed by the questions below:

I. The Influence of Ideas

How does the policy reflect the influence of the following sources of ideas?  If the policy does not seem to rely on one or more of the sources below, just leave the response box beneath the source(s) blank.

the sponsors' public philosophy(ies)

the public philosophy of the sponsors' political party(ies)*

scientific research

analytical studies

news and commentary in the media

II. The Influence of Special Interests

How does the policy reflect the influence of special interest groups?  For each special interest that you can identify, describe their policy goals and the means of influence that they employ. (The user will be able to create more blank rows under each type of special interest.)

eval?  How do these interests and influences relate to the common good?  In your estimation, do they influence the platform in ways that promote or hinder individual development, social progress, environmental stability?  If you or the candidate espouse beliefs about the cosmos as a whole, and these beliefs are relevant to political life, how do these influences affect this level of organization?


Ill.  The Influence of Public Opinion

Does the policy seem* to be shaped by public opinion?  If so, how?

What is the amount of influence wielded by public opinion relative to other influences? (i.e. Does it seem to have more or less influence than the other factors in this section?)

Is the policy for some reason not very popular with a large segment of the public?  If so, why? (i.e. Does it try to achieve long-term benefits that may require short-term sacrifices that are resisted by voters?  Does the public believe* that the policy somehow irresponsible or ineffective?  Does the public believe that the policy promotes special interests at the expense of the common good?

eval somehow.  How well informed is public opinion regarding the issues in the candidate's plafform?


IV.  Trade-Offs: Cost-Benefit Analyses

As they explain and defend their proposal, do the policy's sponsors cite analyses of the policy's costs and benefits?  Do they cite cost-benefit analyses of other policies - past or present - that address the same issue in order to explain how their proposal is better than or at least comparable to these other policies?


V. Risk and Uncertainty

Is the policy influenced by its sponsors' concerns about political risks associated with it?  If so, how?

Is it influenced by concerns about the risks and uncertainties associated with the outcome of policies?  If so, how?

VI.     The Timing of Elections

Is the policy influenced by the timing of elections?  If so, how?


VII.  Political Deal-Making

Is the policy influenced by deal-making among legislators and/or other public officials?  Is it influenced by deal-making among the factions of the sponsors' political party(ies)?  If so, how?

Part IV?:  Analyzing the Competence, 
Character, and Leadership of Policy Sponsors

Character and Leadership

Courage
In proposing this legislation, have the sponsors demonstrated a willingness to raise public awareness of issues that are vital to the public welfare, even if they are not sure how the public will respond to them?  If so, how?  If not, how have the sponsors failed to do so?

In their support for this legislation, have the sponsors demonstrated a willingness to support sound policies even though the outcome of these policies is uncertain?

In proposing this legislation, have the sponsors demonstrated courage by taking positions on issues that may be criticized by fellow party members and supporters?  If so, how?  If not, how have the sponsors failed to do so?

Does the policy somehow fulfill promises made by its sponsors either during their campaigns or at some other time?  If so, how?  If not, how does the policy break promises made by its sponsors to the general public?

Overall, in their support for this policy, have the policy's sponsors demonstrated other key virtues that public officials should possess, such as self-control, compassion, and perseverance?  If so, how?  If not, how have they failed to do so?

Knowledge Base

Do the policy's sponsors seem to have a grasp of key facts related to the policy and the problem or issue that it addresses?

As they propose and defend the policy, do the policy's sponsors demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the dynamics of human development, social progress, and ecological cycles of growth and renewal?

Political Skills

Have the policy's sponsors demonstrated an ability to collaborate with a variety of groups and individuals in order to craft compromises and achieve a consensus regarding the policy?  If so, how?  If not, how have they failed to do so?

Have they promoted a civil, open, objective, and rigorous discussion of the policy and the issue that it addresses?  If so, how?  If not, how have they failed to do so?

In crafting this policy, have its sponsors demonstrated a commitment to an experimental approach to policymaking?  If so, how?  If not, how have they failed to do so?

 




old stuff
II.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on Society and Social Dynamics
The "Assumptions" from section II of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here.

A.  Institutions
The "Assumptions" from section II.A of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How will the policy promote the effective and ethical functioning of the following institutions?  I.e.  How will it encourage the following groups to promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?  How will it promote transparent decision-making processes within the following organizations?

Families

Churches

Civic organizations

Advocacy groups that represent the interests of specific populations: the elderly, supporters of gun rights, consumers, etc.

Nongovernmental organizations that promote political justice, economic justice, human rights, and/or ecological stewardship

Media organizations: TV networks, radio stations; newspaper and magazine publishers

Business Firms

Labor unions

Schools: primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education

Charitable organizations that serve the needs of especially vulnerable populations: the poor, elderly, etc.

Institutions that support the arts

Political parties


1)  Special Institutional Focus on Governments
How does the policy promote the establishment of more democratic structures of government in your nation?

How does it encourage or discourage governments to use decision-making processes that are more transparent -- that is, more open to public input, review, and evaluation?

How does it help local and state governments to resist corruption and thus be more responsive to the needs and interests of citizens?

How does it affect the ability of your national government to resist corruption and thus be more responsive to the needs and interests of citizens?

How does it affect the ability of local and state governments to enact and enforce legislation that is just and environmentally sound?

How does it affect the ability of your national government to enact and enforce legislation that is just and environmentally sound?

How does it impact the ability of your national government to efficiently maintain a military force that is capable of defending the nation's interests and values?

How does it affect the ability of your government to strike a balance between spending on military programs and on those programs that promote human development and environmental protection?


2)  Special Focus on the Institutional Level: Understanding How Political Parties Shape Legislation
The "Assumptions" from section II.A.1 of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here.  The following questions will help users to gain information that will enable them to identify the influences that shape the domestic platform of the political party(ies) to which the sponsor(s) and supporters of a policy belong.

Who belongs to the party(ies) that sponsored this legislation?  What characteristics do they share: philosophical, ethnic, economic, etc.?

Who provides financial support for the party(ies)?

How does the policy reflect the interests of members and supporters of the sponsoring party(ies)?

Are these interests compatible with the long-term well-being of the individuals, social groups, and environmental areas that will be affected by the policy?


B.  Social Sectors
The "Assumptions" from section II.B of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How will the policy promote constructive relationships

within the market sector?

within the government sector?

within civil society?

between the market and the state?

between the market and civil society?

between civil society and the state?



C.  Socio-Cultural Collectivities
The "Assumptions" from section II.C of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How will this policy secure equal opportunities for the persons of different: 

Classes?

Races?

Ethnic Groups?

Religions and sects?

Genders?

Age Groups?

Sexual orientations?

D.  Different Levels of Social Organization
The "Assumptions" from section II.D of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How will this policy promote constructive relationships between different levels of social organization?  Does the policy adhere to the principle of subsidiarity, which states that all human endeavors (economic ventures, public policies, etc.) should be pursued and administered at a level that is as local as possible but as centralized as necessary?




III.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on the Environment
The "Assumptions" from section III of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How will this policy help to protect and preserve

individual species?

ecosystems?

the biosphere as a whole?

How does the policy strive to integrate the goals of economic growth and ecological stewardship?

IV.  Understanding Legislation on the Cosmic Level of Organization

A.  Exploring the Cosmic Views of the Sponsors of Policies
The "Assumptions" from section IV.A of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Does this policy reflect cosmic perspectives of its sponsors?

If so, is this influence consistent with the values and principles of your nation's Constitution?  

Do cosmic views influence this policy in ways that promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?

B.  Understanding Policies from the Perspective of One's Own Cosmic Views
The "Assumptions" from section IV.B of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do you believe that universal principles or laws govern human affairs, such as the principles of yin-yang or the law of karma?  Do you believe in some divine plan for the universe that guides human history (such as the coming of the Kingdom of God)?  Do you believe in some system of divine justice that operates in human affairs?  If so, how does this policy relate to your cosmic views?  If you believe in a divine plan, how does it relate to this divine plan?  Does it further or hinder this plan?  If you believe in a cosmic system of divine justice, how does it relate to this system?  If you espouse universal laws or principles, how does it relate to these laws and principles?  Are its possible effects consistent with or in conflict with these laws or principles? 




V.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on All Levels of Organization
The "Assumptions" from section V of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

Are sponsors of this policy aware of its impact on all levels of organization (personal, social, ecological, and cosmic)?



VI.  Understanding the Impact of Legislation on Relationships between Different Levels of Organization

How does this policy take into consideration relationships between different levels of organization?



VII.  Understanding How Legislation Respects the Hierarchy of Values that Exists between the Different Levels of Organization
The "Assumptions" from section VI of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How does this policy take into consideration the hierarchy of values that exists among the different levels of organization?



VIII.  Analyzing Debaters' Understanding of Trade-Offs between the Costs and Benefits of Different Policy Options
The "Assumptions" from section VII of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

How does the policy justify trade-offs regarding its effects on

different individuals (i.e. which principles [if any] does it cite to justify burdens placed on some individuals for the benefit of other individuals)?

different social groups (i.e. which principles [if any] does it cite to justify burdens placed on some social groups for the benefit of other social groups)?

entities within different levels of organization (i.e. which principles [if any] does it cite to justify burdens placed on entities within one level of organization for the benefit of entities on other levels of organization)?



VIII.  Exploring Whether Legislation Follows an 'Experimental Approach' to Public Policy-Making
The "Assumptions" from section VIII of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How does this policy reflect an ‘experimental approach’ to public policy-making?

Exploring Relationships between 
this Policy and Other Areas of Domestic and Foreign Policy

I.  Strategic Relationships with Other Policies

Is this policy part of a larger policy strategy that addresses some significant public issue?  If so, how does it relate to other policies within this strategy?  Does it complement the other policies?  Do the goals of this policy somehow conflict with the goals of others within this strategy?


II.  General Relationships with Other Areas of Domestic Policy

How is this policy related to the following areas of domestic policy:

Agricultural Policy, Education Policy (teacher training, vouchers, student performance), Taxation Policy, Banking and Finance, Energy Policy (sources of energy, conservation), Industrial/Manufacturing Policy, Transportation Policy, Waste Management, Air and Water Pollution, Health Care (costs and accessibility) and Public Health (general fitness, nutrition, public health and the environment), Environmental Issues not covered in other policy areas above (wilderness areas, endangered species), Bioethics (issues such as abortion, stem cell research, and genetic engineering), Poverty Reduction, Entitlements (social security, medicare), Volunteerism and Service, Criminal Justice (crime prevention, firearm regulation, sentencing, recidivism, rehabilitation, issues surrounding the death penalty, etc.), Issues Related to Discrimination (on the basis of race, creed, gender, sexual preference, age, disability), Military Budget and Preparedness, Policies Promoting the Arts, Government Ethics (campaign finance, conflicts of interest, size and scope of government), Business Ethics


III.  General Relationships with Different Areas of Foreign Policy

How is this policy related to the following areas of foreign policy:

Immigration, International Trade, International Development, Security Alliances (such as NATO), Environmental Stewardship, Peacekeeping, Nation Building, Punitive Policies such as embargoes that penalize other states for some reason, Policies Regarding the Use of Military Force

Analyzing the Impact of Foreign Policies and the
Impact of Domestic Policies on Foreign Relations

The "Assumptions" from Introduction to the "Foreign Relations" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here.


I.  Understanding the Impact of a Foreign Policy on Individual Development
The "Assumptions" from section I.A-D of the "Foreign Relations" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

A.  Physical, Relational, Economic, Political, Cultural, Moral, Spiritual,  and Artistic Dimensions of Development

How will this foreign policy promote the following dimensions of individual development in all  nations affected by it?

Physical

Relational

Intelllectual

Vocational/Economic

Political

Cultural

Artistic

Moral

Spiritual


B.  The Developmental Nature of Liberty and Fulfillment
How does this foreign policy recognize the developmental nature of liberty and fulfillment in the realm of foreign relations?


C.  Integrating Individual Initiative and Social Support
How does this foreign policy acknowledge the roles of individual initiative and social support in the process of personal development?


D.  A Full Range of Human Rights and the Relationships between Them
How does this foreign policy recognize a full range of human rights as well as relationships between different human rights?




II.  Understanding the Impact of a Foreign Policy on Society and Social Dynamics
The "Assumptions" from section II of the "Foreign Relations" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here.


A.  Social Institutions
The "Assumptions" from section II.A of the "Foreign Relations" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

1.  Understanding the Impact of Foreign Policies on Institutions within Nations Affected by Them
How does this foreign policy promote the effective and ethical functioning of the following social institutions in all nations affected by it?  I.e.  How will it encourage the following groups to promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?  How will it promote transparent decision-making processes within the following organizations?

Families

Churches

Civic organizations

Advocacy groups that represent the interests of specific populations: the elderly, supporters of gun rights, consumers, etc.

Nongovernmental organizations  that promote political justice, economic justice, human rights, and/or ecological stewardship

Media organizations: TV networks, radio stations; newspaper and magazine publishers

Business Firms

Labor unions

Schools: primary, secondary, vocational, and higher education

Charitable organizations that serve the needs of especially vulnerable populations: the poor, elderly, etc.

Institutions that support the arts

Political parties


1a)  Special Focus on Local and National Governments
How does this foreign policy promote the establishment of more democratic structures of government in all nations affected by it?  How does it help governments to resist corruption and thus be more responsive to the needs and interests of citizens?

How will this foreign policy affect the transparency of decision-making processes within government bodies?

How does this foreign policy affect the ability of governments to enact and enforce legislation that is just and environmentally sound?

How does it impact the ability of national governments to efficiently maintain adequate military capabilities?

How does it affect the ability of governments to strike a balance between spending on military programs and on those programs that promote human development and environmental protection?

If your nation distributes foreign aid, what principles does this foreign policy advocate for determining how this aid will be distributed to other nations?

How does this foreign policy reflect a broader, more enlightened view of national security that focuses on environmental protection and improving of the lives of citizens both within and beyond the borders of your nation?


1.a.1)  The Use of Force for the National Defense:  A Special Issue for National Governments
If this foreign policy deals with issues related to the use of force by one or more nations, how is this use of force justified?

Does this foreign policy address long-term strategies for cultivating peace and prosperity, particularly in troubled regions of the world?


2.  International Institutions
How will this foreign policy promote the effective and ethical functioning of the following international social institutions?  I.e.  How will it encourage the following groups to promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?  How will it promote transparent decision-making processes within the following organizations?

international governing organizations such as the United Nations

international alliances or blocs (such as NATO)

international religious bodies

international media organizations

international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank

other organizations that finance international development programs

institutions that regulate international trade (such as the World Trade Organization)

international groups that serve needy or vulnerable -- the poor, the sick, the elderly, victims of disasters, etc.

international nongovernmental organizations that advocate economic justice, political justice, and environmental stewardship

international labor unions

international organizations that coordinate cultural projects, including sporting events

transnational corporations that have manufacturing and marketing divisions in more than one nation


3.  Special Focus on the Institutional Level: Understanding How Political Parties Shape Foreign Policies
The "Assumptions" from section II.A.3 of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here.  The following questions will help users to gain information that will enable them to identify the influences that shape the foreign policy platform of the political party(ies) to which the sponsor(s) and supporters of a policy belong.

Who belongs to the party(ies) that sponsored this legislation?  What characteristics do they share: philosophical, ethnic, economic, etc.?

Who provides financial support for the party(ies)?

How does this foreign policy reflect the interests of members and supporters of its sponsoring party(ies)?

Are these interests compatible with the long-term well-being of the individuals, social groups, and ecosystems in all nations that will be affected by this foreign policy?




B.  National and International Social Sectors
The "Assumptions" from section II.B of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

In all nations affected by it, how does this foreign policy promote constructive relationships

within national governments and international governing bodies?

within the dynamics of international trade?

within the national and international levels of civil society?


between governing bodies and markets on the local, national, and international levels?

between governing bodies and civil society on the local, national, and international levels?

between civil society and markets on the local, national, and international levels?


C.  Different Levels of Social Organization
The "Assumptions" from section II.C of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How does this foreign policy promote constructive relationships between different levels of social organization (local, state, national, international)?  Does the policy respect the principle of subsidiarity, which states that all human endeavors (economic ventures, public policies, etc.) should be pursued and administered at a level that is as local as possible but as centralized as necessary?


D.  Socio-Cultural Collectivities
The "Assumptions" from section II.D of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

In all nations affected by it, how does this foreign policy promote equal opportunities for the persons of different:

Classes?

Races?

Ethnic Groups?

Religions and sects?

Genders?

Age Groups?

Sexual orientations?

III.  Understanding the Impact of a Foreign Policy on the Environment
The "Assumptions" from section III of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

In all nations affected by it, how will this policy help to protect and preserve

individual species?

ecosystems?

the biosphere as a whole?

How does the policy strive to integrate the goals of economic growth and ecological stewardship?



IV.  Understanding the Impact of a Foreign Policy on the Cosmic Level of Organization

A.  Exploring the Cosmic Views of Sponsors of Foreign Policies
The "Assumptions" from section IV.A of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Does this foreign policy reflect the cosmic perspectives of its sponsors?

If so, do these cosmic views influence this foreign policy in ways that promote the welfare of individuals, social groups, and the environment?

Does this foreign policy integrate cosmic views in a way that honors the principles enshrined in your nation's Constitution?

B.  Understanding a Foreign Policy from the Perspective of One's Own Cosmic Views
The "Assumptions" from section IV.B of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below.

Do you believe that universal principles or laws govern human affairs, such as the principles of yin-yang or the law of karma?  Do you believe in some divine plan for the universe that guides human history (such as the coming of the Kingdom of God)?  Do you believe in some system of divine justice that operates in human affairs?  If so, how does this foreign policy relate to your cosmic views?  If you believe in a divine plan, how does it relate to this divine plan?  Will its possible effects around the globe further or hinder this plan?  If you believe in a cosmic system of divine justice, how does it relate to this system?  If you espouse universal laws or principles, how does it relate to these laws and principles?  Are its possible effects consistent with or in conflict with these laws or principles?  




V.  Understanding the Impact of a Foreign Policy on Relationships between Different Levels of Organization
The "Assumptions" from section V of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How does this foreign policy take into consideration relationships between different levels of organization (personal, social, ecological, cosmic)?



VI.  Understanding How a Foreign Policy Respects the Hierarchy of Values that Exists between the Different Levels of Organization
The "Assumptions" from section VI of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How does this foreign policy take into consideration the hierarchy of values that exists among the different levels of organization?



VII.  Analyzing How a Foreign Policy Deals with Trade-Offs between Costs and Benefits
The "Assumptions" from section VII of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the question below.

How does the policy justify trade-offs regarding its effects on

different individuals (i.e. how does it  justify placing burdens on some individuals for the benefit of other individuals)?

different social groups (i.e. how does it justify placing burdens on some social groups for the benefit of other social groups)?

entities within different levels of organization (i.e. how does it justify placing burdens on entities within one level of organization for the benefit of entities on other levels of organization)?



VIII.  Exploring Whether a Foreign Policy Follows an 'Experimental Approach' to Public Policy-Making
The "Assumptions" from section VII of the "Foreign Policy" section of "The Framework for Analysis and Evaluation" will be provided here, followed by the questions below:

How does this foreign policy reflect an ‘experimental approach’ to public policy-making?

Recognizing the Interests and
Influences that Shape the Foreign Policy

Based on your analysis of this policy, how have the following factors influenced the creation of this policy?

The public philosophy of the sponsor's(s') political party(ies)

Unique aspects of the public philosophy of the sponsor(s)

The values and interests of the nation sponsoring the policy (could be political, economic, cultural, or even religious)

Members of the party(ies) to which the sponsor(s) belong

The interests of the sponsor's(s') constituents

The desire to manipulate public opinion in favor of the sponsor(s) and their party(ies)

The interests of groups that make donations to the sponsor(s) and/or their party(ies)

The interests of groups that contain large numbers of voting members who share views that are expressed in the policy

The interests of wealthy or charismatic individuals

The interests of foreign governments

A genuine concern for the welfare of individuals, social groups, the environment, and, if applicable, the cosmos as a whole

Exploring Relationships between 
this Policy and Other Areas of Foreign Policy

I.  Strategic Relationships with Other Foreign Policies

Is this foreign policy part of a larger policy strategy that addresses some significant public issue?  If so, how does it relate to other policies within this strategy?  Does it complement the other policies?  Do the goals of this policy somehow conflict with the goals of others within this strategy?


II.  General Relationships with Other Areas of Foreign Policies

Whether or not this policy is part of a broader strategy, how is it related to the following areas of foreign policy:

immigration policy, international trade policy, international development policy, security alliances (such as NATO), environmental policies and treaties, policies related to peace keeping and nation building, punitive policies such as embargoes that penalize other states for some reason, policies regarding the use of military force