The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science

Evidence-Based Social Policy: The Promise and Challenges of a Movement

For the past two decades, state and federal governments have seen a significant increase in evidence-based policymaking, which has allowed them to develop effective programs and improve existing ones. The field of evidence-based policy comprises several subdivisions, representing distinct approaches to generating and using evidence. While there is still a ways to go before the field proves consistent in improving the nation’s policies, the research presented here shows that the field is not to be overlooked, and can have positive implications for the future of policy in our nation.

This volume of The ANNALS provides a survey of the field of evidence-based practices and policymaking through papers written by the some of its most notable practitioners, including two U.S. senators and one of the original developers and implementers of the Pay for Success program model. The research in this volume provides a unique overview of the field of evidence-based policy, and demonstrates the benefits of this approach to policy-makers and the public alike.