This book provides a comprehensive overview of how the course, content and outcome of policy making is affected by big data. Offering a holistic approach to the study of big data, this book will appeal to students and scholars of public policy, public administration and data science, as well as those interested in governance and politics.

Chapter 1: Introduction.- Chapter 2: Big Data.- Chapter 3: Public Policy Making.- Chapter 4: Big Data and Public Policy Making.- Chapter 5: Research Strategy.- Chapter 6: DARE in Rotterdam.- Chapter 7: Food Security in Denmark.- Chapter 8: Noise Pollution in Dublin.- Chapter 9: Analysis.- Chapter 10: Discussion.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of how the course, content and outcome of policy making is affected by big data. It scrutinises the notion that big and open data makes policymaking a more rational process, in which policy makers are able to predict, assess and evaluate societal problems. It also examines how policy makers deal with big data, the problems and limitations they face, and how big data shapes policymaking on the ground. The book considers big data from various perspectives, not just the political, but also the technological, legal, institutional and ethical dimensions. The potential of big data use in the public sector is also assessed, as well as the risks and dangers this might pose. Through several extended case studies, it demonstrates the dynamics of big data and public policy. Offering a holistic approach to the study of big data, this book will appeal to students and scholars of public policy, public administration and data science, as well as those interested in governance and politics.Rebecca Moody is Assistant Professor of Public Administration at Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Her research focuses on the relationship between technology and public policy.Victor Bekkers is Professor of Public Administration at Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands. His research focuses on the role of e-government and big data in shaping public policy and governance.    

“Big data and public policy: course, content, and outcome … is an excellent book for those who are involved in policy-making processes and looking to learn how big data and public policy are strengthened together. The book is well structured and easy to follow, with plenty of case studies to help readers understand the concepts and put them into practice. … big data in public policy has the potential to improve decision-making, increase efficiency, and promote better outcomes for citizens.” (Mihailescu Marius Iulian, Computing Reviews, May 25, 2023)

Provides a comprehensive overview of how the course, content and outcome of policy making is affected by big data Identifies limitations that policy makers face when using big data Uses numerous case studies to assess effects of big data on policymaking