The Multiple Streams Framework and Non-Politicized Issues: The Case of Assisted Dying/Assisted Suicide

Abstract

This article applies agenda-setting theory, and the multiple streams framework in particular, to consider why assisted dying/assisted suicide (AD/AS) has not been legalized in the United Kingdom, and also what the prospects are for policy change. AD/AS provides an interesting test case for agenda-setting theory, which tends to focus on governmental agendas (Kingdon 2011, 3) and has thus been said to ‘say less about the policy outcomes of such nonpoliticized policy processes’ (Green-Pedersen 2007, 286) that generally characterize morality polices. Agenda-setting theory provides valuable insights into this case, which reveals an important role for government even on this free vote matter of conscience. However, the case highlights aspects of agenda-setting theory relating to assumptions on legitimacy and the power of persuasion that fare less well, and which have implications for the future study of morality policies. Related Articles: Angervil, G. 2021. “A Comprehensive Application of Kingdon's Multiple Streams Framework: An Analysis of the Obama Administration's No Child Left Behind Waiver Policy.” Politics & Policy 49, no. 5: 980–1020. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12432. Knackmuhs, E., Farmer, J., and Knapp, D. 2020. “The Interaction of Policy Narratives, Moral Politics, and Criminal Justice Policy Beliefs.” Politics & Policy 48, no. 2: 288–313. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12343. Silagadze, N. 2021. “Abortion Referendums: Is There a Recipe for Success?” Politics & Policy 49, no. 2: 352–389. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12398.