Policy Analysis and Problem-Solving for Social Systems: Toward Understanding, Monitoring, and Managing Complex Real World Problems

by P.N. Rastogi

"At a time when social science research in India is getting routinised, and almost stymied because of poverty of theory, Rastogi′s book makes a major breakthrough. He has written in a concise, precise and parsimonious style. The book deserves to be read by all social researchers." --The Indian Journal of Social Science "An important work. A worthy contribution. This small but lucidly written book attempts to formulate and identify appropriate and effective policies for problem-solving in social systems.... The book is carefully and intelligently divided into 10 chapters. Throughout the book, cybernetic method to solve the social problems is developed most scientifically. The mathematical approach adopted is not only innovative, but practical as well.... The author successfully demonstrates that short term and long term solutions can be worked out systematically to solve complex and diverse problems.... The book is very neatly planned and very methodically presented.... This book is an important and a valuable contribution in the area of policy analysis and problem solving for social systems. Rastogi has already made valuable contributions in this area. The present work adds a jewel to his crown. The book has to be read without fail by all the social scientists and policy makers who are interested in grasping the social problems and are eager to solve such problems to bring to being a better society."

152 pages, Hardcover

First published September 3, 1992