Unequal Access to the State: Inequality in Policy Design and Implementation

Undergraduate / Graduate

This course examines how-whether intentional or not-policy design shapes individuals' relationship with the state. We analyze policy design--whether policies are universal or targeted; generous or meager; restrict or expand access. We examine how policy design can reproduce inequality through policy rules that obstruct access to resources for some and enhance access to state benefits for others. This course specifically focuses on administrative burdens and features of policy design and implementation that contribute to racial and economic inequality. We also cover policy cases that reflect the best and worst-case scenarios in policy design.