000			01440nam a2200169Ia 4500
008			181130s2018 xx 000 0 und d
100			_aWolf, Eva E.A.
245			_aConflict reconsidered: _bthe boomerang effect of depoliticization in the policy process
260			_c2018
300			_ap.286-301.
520			_aThis article argues that the efforts of policy?makers to avoid conflict in the short run can be counterproductive in the long run. Not only may policy?makers fail to reap the benefits of conflicts when they try to steer clear, but conflict may actually increase rather than diminish. We study conflict through the conceptual lens of (de)politicization in the lengthy and highly contested policy?making process over the multibillion?euro �Oosterweelconnection� highway in Antwerp (Belgium). An in?depth media analysis of 739 articles is combined with data from 32 narrative interviews. We conclude that efforts to end public debate through depoliticization can have a boomerang effect, in which conflict disappears only temporarily, and that these efforts can ultimately increase conflict while wasting engagement and creativity. More attention to the productive aspects of conflict is needed in public administration literature and practice. - Reproduced.
650			_aPolicy making
650			_aPublic administration
700			_aDooren, Wouter Van
773			_aPublic Administration
906			_aPolicy making
999			_c506871 _d506871