Editorial introduction: Exploring the frontier of policy theory research

Abstract

Welcome to the second issue of the Policy Studies Journal (PSJ) for 2024! We are thrilled to present this issue, which includes 10 exceptional research articles meticulously selected to cover a wide range of topics within policy theories and substantive policy areas as they relate to policy processes across different contexts. Before we dive into the articles, we want to pause and share some exciting updates about PSJ operations. These developments are designed to enhance the journal's contribution to the field, offering new opportunities for engagement and discourse among our community.As discussed elsewhere, we have expanded the range of article types that we publish, including short articles such as research notes and perspectives, and Policy Theory & Practice (PT&P) articles. If you plan to submit your manuscript to PSJ, we urge you not to worry too much about which article type is the best fit for your manuscript. Instead, focus on the quality of your research, and we will sort out any article type issues later. When submitting your manuscript, we encourage you to select PT&P as your possible publication option. Should your manuscript not align perfectly with the standard PSJ research article, we will evaluate it for publication under PT&P. It is important to note that PT&P operates as a rolling special issue within PSJ, meaning that your article, if accepted for PT&P, will be published as a part of the PSJ collection.We have a few updates regarding ongoing special issue initiatives. Drs. Saba Siddiki (PSJ Associate Editor) and Davor Mondom (PSJ Managing Editor) have successfully managed the manuscript review process for the Policy Design special issue, collaborating with Drs. Cali Curley (University of Miami) and Tomás Olivier (Syracuse University). We are delighted with the progress made and grateful for their leadership throughout the process. Dr. Holly Peterson (PSJ Associate Editor) is leading a special issue on Policy Advisory Systems (https:// psjbl og. net/ 2024/ 03/ 25/ the-polic y-studi es-journ al-psj-invit es-submi ssion s-for-a-speci al-issue -focus ing-on-polic y-advis ory-syste ms/ ) while working with Drs. Jonathan Craft (University of Toronto) and Claire Dunlop (University of Exeter). Additionally, Drs. Geoboo Song (PSJ Editor-in-Chief), Gwen Arnold (PSJ Associate Editor), and Aaron Smith-Walter (PSJ Associate Editor) are curating a special issue focusing on the conception of power (https:// psjbl og. net/ 2024/ 04/ 19/ call-for-paper s-psj-speci al-issue -on-power -in-polic y-theor y-resea rch/ ) while working with many other prominent policy scholars. We welcome your submissions for these special issues.In March, we hosted a virtual "Authors Meet Editors" event in collaboration with the American Political Science Association (APSA) Public Policy Section. We had the opportunity to engage in stimulating conversations with policy scholars from around the world about PSJ, review processes, research trends, and publication tips. We are grateful to the APSA Public Policy Section leaders/members,...