Abstrakt
This introductory chapter explains basic concepts used throughout the book (policy, policy analysis, public policy etc.), describes the structure of the book and key research topics and questions that are dealt with. It also provides brief overview of the chapters. First, problems with translating "policy analysis" and "public policy" are discussed and it is shown what practical and theoretical consequences it has. Second, four different possible meanings of policy analysis in the Czech discourse are discerned:
1) policy analysis as policy studies;
2) policy analysis as institutionalized methodological practice;
3) policy analysis as any type of policy advising based upon relevant knowledge;
4) policy analysis as policy work. Third, we describe the structure of the book, basic core themes and questions covered in this book. Fourth, we provide brief outline of the book chapters.
