European Policy Analysis Volume 2, Number 1, Spring 2016 | Page 188

Integrative Political Strategies—Conceptualizing and Analyzing a New Type of Policy Field

practice. First, the propositions might
challenge established theoretical models
of policy change. How can the dynamics
within established integrative–strategic
policy fields be explained? Furthermore,
from the perspective of normative
theory, the relationship between IPS
and democratic principles, such as
accountability, might arise. How do
integrative–strategic policy fields challenge
established practices of democratic
policymaking? Second, the proposition to
analyze integrative strategies in terms of
new policy fields rather than operational
policy programs implies an extension of
current empirical research on IPS. Before
assessing whether and to what extent
IPS can fulfill certain functions, their
integrative and strategic qualities are to
be empirically described. What forms of
integration and strategy can be identified
around various IPS in different contex