Scholars, Policymakers, and International Affairs

Book excerpt: Scholars, Policymakers, and International Affairs shows how to build mutually beneficial connections between the worlds of ideas and action, analysis and policy. Drawing on contributions from top international scholars with policy experience as well as senior policymakers, Abraham F. Lowenthal and Mariano E. Bertucci make the case that scholars can both strengthen their research and contribute to improved policies while protecting academia from the risks of active participation in the policy process. Many scholars believe that policymakers are more interested in processes and outcomes than in understanding causality. Many policymakers believe that scholars are absorbed in abstract and self-referential debates and that they are primarily focused on crafting theories rather than developing solutions to pressing policy issues. The book's contributors discuss how these obstacles can be overcome. Case studies illustrate how scholars have helped reduce income inequality, promote democratic governance, and enhance inter-American cooperation. These success stories are balanced by studies on why academic analysts have had little positive impact on counternarcotics and citizen security policies. The conclusion identifies best practices and provides concrete recommendations. Book jacket.