Policy Researchers and Policymakers: Never the Twain Shall Meet?

Abstract

The 1980s have seen the heavy emphasis on economic policymaking. As such, equal emphasis has also been bestowed to the substantial improvement on the principles of analysis and evaluation developed by economists and other social scientists. This article examines the differences between policymakers and researchers and recommends policies to bridge the gap between the two. It then critiques the recommendations and discusses alternative concepts of the impact of social sciences. It concludes by examining the implications for agencies financing research in developing countries.