Managing policy formulation and implementation in Zambia's democratic transition

This article describes the establishment of a policy management group in Zambia's Cabinet Office and the introduction of a policy formulation and implementation process managed by that policy management group. Both have served as models for other governments aiming at more effective, transparent and accountable governance. (© 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)     

VARIATION IN AFRICAN-AMERICAN HOMICIDE RATES: AN ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL EXPLANATIONS*

Using 1990 data for 222 metropolitan areas, this study extends the traditional variables examined in models of homicide and uses regression analysis to test the viability of three alternative theories that may explain high rates of African-American homicide victimization. The first approach examines the extent to which weak forms of social control have contributed to high homicide rates. The second approach tests the notion that discrimination and inequality have increased levels of absolute and relative deprivation for blacks, which in turn engender frustration and contribute to higher levels of violence. The third approach posits that engagement in violent activity may be a rational act for young African-American males faced with the reality of highly limited economic opportunities. While all three approaches contribute to explaining high African-American homicide, this study shows the greatest support for the social control explanation.     

MEASURING LAMBDA THROUGH SELF-REPORTS*

The Rand Corporation 's pioneering study on self-reported measures of individual offending rates has generated considerable controversy. In this study, the Rand methodology was refined in an attempt to achieve more precise estimates of λ Individual interviews, a more detailed calendar system, and month-by-month reporting were used with an intake cohort of 403 recently convicted male offenders. This paper examines variability in offending rates within individuals, in particular their highest rates and most recent rates, and the implications for measuring λ