Polycentricity and Public Policy

This edited volume advances the theoretical understanding of polycentric governance systems and the real-world implications for addressing complex social dilemmas. Polycentric systems are characterized by multiple decision-making centers that operate independently and interactively to solve complex social dilemmas. The contributors to this volume come from a variety of disciplines and explore a diverse array of theoretical and empirical insights related to polycentric governance arrangements. The volume is structured to feature the theoretical underpinnings of polycentricity, as well as real-world examples and case studies that demonstrate its application and impact across various policy domains, including substance abuse, disaster recovery, financial technology, and digital privacy, among other issues. In particular, the chapters emphasize the epistemic and incentive-related benefits of polycentric systems. The volume provides a nuanced understanding of how polycentric governance can address public policy challenges, while also considering the potential limitations and drawbacks of such systems.