Research Handbook on Public Affairs

Book excerpt: In this innovative Handbook, Arco Timmermans brings together a diverse range of experts to scrutinise the current field of public affairs, what can be learned from it and its compatibility with democracy and open society. Through this multidisciplinary focus, the Handbook aims to closely connect the spheres of research and practice within public affairs. Chapters map out the roots and foundations of public affairs, including its status as a discipline and profession, and dissect perspectives on its context, from direct organisational settings to the wider environment. Contributors analyse research for the evidence basis of public affairs, competencies in the field, and the role of ethics, especially in the relationship between lobbying and public interest. Ultimately, this Handbook assesses the current landscape as well as proposing future perspectives in an area where attention to further development is crucial. Providing a nuanced exploration of an expanding field of research and practice, this Handbook will prove a vital reference point to scholars and students of public affairs, political science, communication, management science, public administration, and regional government. Its practical applications will also make it relevant to public affairs practitioners, as well as journalists and media professionals looking to build their knowledge of the field.