Liberal–conservative conflict and consensus in policy making

This study argues that ideology can play a major and positive role in the policy making process. Using the policy areas of civil rights and public education, it demonstrates that when policy initiatives are both ideologically consistent and based on a clear delineation of the dynamics of how the policy will change the current situation for the better, the ensuing debate between liberals and conservatives generally results in effective policy. When both elements are not present, ineffective policy results.