Klass, G.M. (1993). Review of Incrementalism and Public Policy. Journal of Politics. 55. Pp 523-526.

In Klass's review of the book, Incrementalism and Public Policy, Klass highlights how the author Michael T. Hayes introduces the reader to two interrelated components of the incremental theory. Klass reveals to the reader that the two components of incrementalism are policy analysis and policy-making. He goes on to explain how Hays differentiate the two by stating that rational policy making cannot be done without fully analyzing the policy, policy analysis. He then explains how our government lacks policy analysis and informs us that Hay’s book conveys the established political science explanation of policy making. Klass informs us that Hayes consistently emphasizes the impediments to change. This book review allows the reader to obtain an insight of different classes of incrementalism. It can be helpful in the definition process of a research because using different classes to define a word is more efficient than just sticking to one definition.

Kantowicz ,Edward R. (1985).The Limits of Incrementalism: Carter’s Efforts at Tax Reform. Journal of Policy Analysis and Management. Issue 2. P.217-233

Kantowicz begins his paper by giving the reader a solid definition of incrementalism. He then goes on to informing us that ever since the New Deal of the 1930’s, liberal performers have pursed political and economic change through a policy of incrementalism. After Kantowicz’s introduction, he does not hesitate to reveal the many different ways incrementalism is limited. He gives a variety of governmental examples like the Voting Rights Acts and the Civil Rights Act, stating that in situation such as theses incrementalisms is limited and semi impossible. Kantowicsz then informs the reader that Incremental change may be appropriate for advancing or extending social programs but insufficient when curbing or redirecting them. He does a great job at highlighting the limits of incrementalism. He also builds a useful case study and allows the reader to understand that there is always a pro and a con to every situation. The limits of Incrementalism is a very useful tool to include in our research process because there is always a limit to everything and it is very useful to understand and acknowledge the limits.

Nathan, Richard P.A Case for Incrementalism. Challenge (05775132). Academic Journal.May/June77, Vol.20 Issue, p56. 4p

In the article A Case for Incrementalism the author Richard P. Nathan begins his article by first recognizing a problem in the United States. He states “a rich nation like the United States should be able to provide adequate income for all who are in need”. He then proposes the question “how should the nation’s various income security programs work in order to be efficient, and to maintain work incentives? And how close are we to meeting these standards? Through the course of the article Nathan is able to collect a variety of solutions. One of the many solutions revealed was the “incremental approach. The idea behind this approach is that income security programs have become so large, diverse, and complex that, rather than starting from scratch, the best prospect for the future is to build on the base that currently exist. Nathan shines a light on incrementalism and allows the reader to see one of the many situations in which incrementalism serves as a positive outlook to society. The proposal of building on a base that currently exist is a great example of the evolution of incrementalism in the government and in society.

Waddan, Alex; Jaenicke, Douglas. Policy & Politics.Recent incremental health care reforms in the US: a way forward or false promise. Apr2006, Vol.34 Issue2, p241-263          

In this article Wadden and Douglas highlights the recent incremental health care reforms in the U.S. The article states that many of those who have recently prescribed incremental health care reform posit it as an effective means to achieve universal coverage, or at least to reduce uninsurance significantly. Since 1984, at least 12 separate incremental reforms have sought to reduce the ranks of uninsured. According to the article, incrementalism may not get much press but it does work. As a result of these incremental changes to health care, pregnant women and children under six whose family income are below 130 % of poverty and children from 6 to 18 years whose family income is below poverty became entitled to Medicaid. This article is a prime example of how policies are able to change over time. It shows that incrementalism has worked in the past and can work in the future.

Wildavsky,Aaron. Naomi Caiden.(1997). The New Politics of the Budgetary Process. Issue 13, P.287-295

In the book Taking Sides: Clashing View in Public Administration and Policy, issue 13 proposes a question “should incrementalism be the guiding budgeting philosophy of public agencies?” Aaron Wildavsky and Naomi Caiden answer the question with a solid YES. They both argue that incremental budgeting accurately reflects the nature of the political process in the United States.They later go on to state that budgeting is incremental, not comprehensive. Wildavsky and Caiden highlights the fact that most of each budget is a product of previous decisions and many items are standard, simply reenacted every year unless there is a special reason to challenge them. The two is able to build a solid argument that proves to the reader how incremental changes will be a benefit in the process of budgeting.

Kelly,Aidan.(April 1989).Journal of Social Policy. Taking Sides: Clashing View in Public Administration and Policy.  Pp.296-303

In the book Taking Sides: Clashing View in Public Administration and Policy, when asked the question should incrementalism be the guiding budgeting philosophy of public agencies writer Aidan Kelly replies, no. Kelly justifies her answer by providing a variety of definition as to what incrementalism actually is. For example, she touches on Incrementalism and Budgeting in Social Service Departments closely relating incrementalism to the ‘muddling through’ perspective developed by Charles Lindblom. She then goes on to explaining The Cognitive Bases of Incrementalism stating that ‘daily routine drives out planning.’ Lastly she touches on The Political Bases of Incrementalism where Kelly informs the reader that incrementalism is not simply a function of limited analytical capacity, it is also a consequence of the fact that budgetary process are characterized by alliance building and bargaining. Kelly does a great job at justifying her answer and informing the reader of the many flaws of budgeting incrementalism. Kelly does not use bias opinions but she simply explains to the reader that although incrementalism can be a good idea, an incremental solution will not be valid when it comes to budgetary policies.