how does an iron triangle differ from an issue network?
Check these sites, especially the second one that discusses your question specifically.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_triangle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Issue_network
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An iron triangle and an issue network are both concepts used in the study of political science and policy-making, but they represent different types of relationships between various stakeholders involved in the policy-making process.
1. Iron Triangle:
An iron triangle refers to a close relationship between three key actors: a government agency, a congressional committee, and interest groups. These three entities work closely together to shape and maintain policies that are beneficial to each of them.
To understand the concept of an iron triangle, you would typically:
1. Identify a specific policy issue or area of governance.
2. Identify the relevant government agency responsible for that policy area.
3. Identify the relevant congressional committee that oversees the agency's activities.
4. Identify the interest groups that have a stake in influencing the policy decisions related to that specific issue.
The three sides of the iron triangle work together in a symbiotic relationship:
- The government agency has expertise in implementing policies but needs support from Congress for budgetary appropriations and legal authority.
- The congressional committee sets legislative policies and relies on the agency's knowledge for technical guidance.
- Interest groups provide political support and resources to influence both the agency and the committee.
2. Issue Network:
An issue network is a more complex and dynamic concept that captures a broader range of actors involved in policy-making. It refers to a larger network of individuals, interest groups, think tanks, academics, and other stakeholders who are all engaged in a particular policy issue.
Understanding an issue network typically involves the following steps:
1. Identify a specific policy issue or area of governance.
2. Identify the key stakeholders involved in that issue, including individual experts, interest groups, think tanks, academics, advocacy organizations, and various government agencies.
3. Map out the relationships and connections between these stakeholders based on their shared interests, expertise, and resources.
Unlike an iron triangle, an issue network recognizes that policy-making involves a wide range of actors who may have different agendas and can shift their alliances depending on the issue at hand. Issue networks are often more fluid and less tightly integrated than iron triangles.
In summary, an iron triangle refers to a specific relationship between a government agency, a congressional committee, and interest groups, whereas an issue network represents a broader and more flexible network of actors involved in policy-making related to a particular issue.